Many readers know I’m a huge fan of Jane Austen, but I also adore the Brontës. Jane Eyre is one of my favorite novels of all time. A couple of years ago, as I was rereading it for the zillionth time, I was intrigued by the character of Diana Rivers, one of Jane Eyre’s cousins, with whom Jane takes refuge during the last part of the book. Diana Rivers and her sister—both strong, compassionate, intelligent women—were born into a well-to-do family but were obliged to become governesses when their father lost his fortune in a bad investment. I thought that was an interesting backstory for a character. In the final chapter of Jane Eyre, we are informed that Diana Rivers married a captain in the Royal Navy, “a gallant officer and a good man.” I wondered: how did that romance come about?

And so, the idea for this novel was born. My heroine, Diana Taylor, becomes a governess at an ancient manor house, working for a brooding gentleman with “a past.” A careful reader will find numerous “Easter eggs” and loving homages to Jane Eyre sprinkled throughout this book. (i.e., my introduction of Captain Fallbrook, whom Diana meets on the road, is a tribute to the scene where Jane Eyre meets Mr. Rochester—although the moment plays out very differently.)

In true Gothic suspense form, I sent Diana Taylor on a mission to solve a murder that puts her own life in peril. I wanted the pupil in Diana’s care to present another mystery to solve—and so I made Emma Fallbrook dyslexic, a learning difficulty that was undiagnosed in 1849, when this story takes place. It wasn’t until 1877 that German ophthalmologist Rudolf Berlin coined the term “dyslexia” to describe partial reading loss by some of his adult patients, but his speculation about its cause was incorrect. It would be another hundred years before dyslexia began to be better understood, and the educational psychology of the condition is still under debate today. I researched dyslexia extensively to present it as accurately and sensitively as I could. Any mistakes I made are my own.

I had great fun writing this novel, and I’m having an equally grand time plotting and writing the next books in the series. I hope you enjoy them. My goal, as always, is to write heartfelt, page-turning stories about strong, smart, sympathetic women and men who must rise above difficult challenges on the road to self-discovery, finding their soul mate, and falling madly in love.

The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall was all I was anticipating. It is a wonderful tribute to Jane Eyre with several clearly familiar moments. Diana was working on her own, so I was practically biting my nails a few times as the danger was palpable, and the atmosphere of unknown menace was thick. I had my finger on a few people, but I was well and far off. Loved seeing her healing from her guilt over her mother's death and the captain opening up about his own guilt. And it was heartwarming seeing Diana make friends with her charge and figure out the girl had a disability (modern-day dyslexia) and figured out how to help her strategize for it. All in all, I thought it absolute fab and can’t wait to get the next installment with her sisters at their mysterious ghostly estate where they are starting a school.

The premise was super interesting, so imagine my surprise when I was super bored while reading this book. I am disappointed because I thought I would love this!

This was my first time reading something by this author. The book delivers on the promise of gothic mystery, slow-burn romance, and spine-tingling suspense.
Set against the windswept cliffs of Cornwall, the story follows Diana Taylor, a whip-smart governess with a tragic past and no patience for affairs of the heart. But love has other plans. When she arrives at Pendowar Hall to fulfill a promise to her godmother and uncover the truth behind a suspicious death, she’s swept into a world of whispers, secrets, and eerie legends. And at the center of it all is Captain William Fallbrook—a wounded Navy officer whose brooding charm and buried sorrow make him both infuriating and irresistible.
Their chemistry is undeniable, sparking tension and vulnerability in equal measure. As Diana digs deeper into the mysteries of Pendowar Hall—including ghostly footsteps, a supposed Mermaid’s Curse, and the deaths of the former baronet’s wife and son—she finds herself entangled not just in danger, but in a romance she never expected.
The plot is fast-paced, rich with atmosphere and emotion. There are moments where the pacing lingers a bit too long, but the final chapters deliver twists, peril, and payoff in a truly satisfying way. The ending is both romantic and haunting, lingering like sea mist long after the final page.
If you're drawn to moody estates, fiercely independent heroines, and men with storm clouds in their souls, this book will absolutely sweep you away.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.

If you love brooding romantic men and gothic romances in the style of Daphne Du Maurier and Charlotte Brontë as much as I do, then The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall should be on your radar. The book pays homage to Jane Eyre and features an intriguing curse and legend about mermaids.

Overall, James has penned an atmospheric gothic suspense novel with a clever mystery, a likable heroine, a believable romance, and beautiful visual imagery of Cornwall. The Mystery of Pendowar Hall is the first book in The Audacious Sisterhood of Smoke & Fire series, and I look forward to reading book two.

Adaptation Recommendation: It could work as a standalone film, the first part of a series of movies, or a limited series.

Content Note: Closed-door romance.

Overall: 4
Romance: 4

A brooding manor on the Cornwall coast, dark family secrets, a wild young girl, a sea captain who may have murdered to inherit, and a governess sent to discover truths that someone would kill to keep unknown fill the latest tale from the talented pen of Syrie James. I’ve long been familiar with Syrie James’ work and saw the announcements of her latest series project that would give tribute to some of the best of romantic suspense from the past. There was no way I was going to miss this.

Mysteries of Pendowar Hall is the first of a series featuring the oldest sister in a trio of amateur sleuths by night and clever governesses by day. Diana goes on behalf of her dying godmother to discover the truth of her brother’s death. The report that it was suicide isn’t just abhorrent to her, but she knows that he’d never do such a thing.

So, taking advantage of the new heir, Captain Falbrook’s need to find a governess for his wayward young cousin, Diana arrives to discover what she can. Her charge has the reputation of being a dunce at school matters and recalcitrant and wild enough that no governess ever stayed long. Diana is no green girl and has quite a bit of experience. She grows to suspect the girl’s issues with schooling stem from something other than a rebellious, spoiled character. The estate is a brooding old place right on a coast notorious for its smuggling history and there are plenty who tell of the lore and legends of the area including a curse on the family for anyone who falls in love. Diana can’t disdain the legends too much because she herself has heard mysterious footsteps in the night and the lights that shine in the tower.

Even as she attempts to solve the current mysteries of the place and encounters people who give her hints toward the right trail, she finds herself slowly thawing into a friendship with both Captain Falbrook and his cousin. In fact, she realizes after a time that she might be getting tender feelings and that wouldn’t do since she’s the governess- and he may still be a murderer. The longer she is at Pendowar Hall; the more she thinks her godmother’s hunch about her late brother is right. If only she can find his journals… and keep surviving the accidents that befall her.

The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall was all I was anticipating. It is a wonderful tribute to Jane Eyre with several clearly familiar moments, but also hearkens to my favorite childhood romantic suspenses by Victoria Holt, Mary Stewart, Daphne du Maurier, and Phyllis Whitney. Diana is observant and clever. She’s got a couple allies counting the butler and the village vicar, but they can’t know exactly what she’s poking into. She’s working on her own so I was practically biting my nails a few times with then danger was palpable and the atmosphere of unknown menace was thick. I had my finger on a few people, but I was well and far off.

Loved seeing Diana start to heal from her guilt over her mother’s death and the captain open up about his own guilt. And, that was heartwarming seeing Diana make friends with her charge and figure out the girl had a disability (modern day dyslexia) and figured out how to help her strategize for it.

All in all, I thought it abso-fab and can’t wait to get the next installment with her sisters at their mysterious ghostly estate where they are starting a school. If you love sweet historical romance combined with classical-style suspense, put this one on your reading list.

She is sent to help a helpless soul or so they have said. He is brooding over what can not be changed. But inly time wil tell if they can change it together.
Mysteries abound with this series. I did not totally figuer out the whodoneit until it was revealed. And was I was surprised!
This is a new author for me. And a keeper....
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with guidelines.

This one was a mystery with a dash of romance.

I throughly enjoyed the way the author wrote this mystery. She had me second guessing everything. I thought I had the murder pegged several times, only to be wrong every time. I love it when that happens.

Diana our FMC was spunky , I really enjoyed her personality. The way she was with Emma and how she helped her, it was wonderful.

The setting of the mysterious manner gave the book a gothic feel that I truly enjoyed.

If you are a Jane Eyre fan you’re going to enjoy all the references mentioned.

If you are a historical fiction or mystery lover, you will love this book. It kept me intrigued and wondering, "Who did it" the entire time. Several times, I thought I knew the killer, but alas, I was wrong in the end. This was a great read, and I can't wait for book 2 to come out.

This book was so good! With its great cast of characters, suspenseful Gothic mystery, and nods to Jane Eyre, I couldn’t put down!

The setting was wonderfully atmospheric with an ancient estate by the sea. There are secret rooms and passageways, mysterious footsteps heard late at night, and a legendary curse involving a mermaid. The mystery kept me guessing to the very end, and even though I thought I had it figured out, the end totally threw me.

I loved the relationship between Diana and her student, Emma, and the romance between William and Diana was lovely, but it’s secondary to the mystery.

Diana Taylor, a spirited governess, is sent to Pendowar Hall to teach her godmother’s niece and uncover the truth behind the former baronet’s suspicious death. There, she meets Captain William Fallbrook, a charismatic but brooding Royal Navy officer.

As Diana investigates Pendowar Hall, she uncovers secrets, including a Mermaid’s Curse, and develops feelings for Captain Fallbrook, but can she trust him?

Diana’s quest to uncover the truth about his uncle’s killer puts her in danger, and he seems torn between fascination and frustration with her determination.

This is the first book in the author’s ‘Audacious Sisterhood of Smoke & Fire’ series, and I can’t wait for the next book!

I received a copy from the publisher and Austenprose PR via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Jane Eyre is one of my all time favorites & I absolutely loved this romantic historical fiction loosely based on the classic story. Filled with mystery, secret rooms, a challenging pupil, a mermaid’s curse, & a handsome but wounded captain, this gothic adventure had me quickly turning the pages. The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall is my first book by Syrie James & can’t wait to read more!

Diana Taylor’s on a mission to solve a mystery. Her godmother believes her nephew was murdered & has sent Diana to Pendowar Hall as a governess to her niece to discover the truth. But, the new baronet Captain William Fallbrook proves an enticing enigma who’s on leave from the navy recovering from an injury. Her fifteen year old pupil also proves a challenge as she tries to find ways to help her learn. As Diana, investigates the death of the previous baronet, she finds a household surrounded by secrecy & a curse that could be her undoing.

I loved this book! Diana’s an intelligent, driven heroine who loves reading especially the newly published Jane Eyre. I loved how dedicated she was to Emma to find ways to help her with dyslexia. William is the brooding, taciturn hero who’s a fitting likeness of Mr. Rochester. I loved how mysterious he was & I honestly wasn’t sure if he was the villain or hero at first.

The mystery was amazing with a gothic, atmospheric setting complete with footsteps in the night, hidden rooms, & plenty of red herrings. I was on the edge of my seat as Diana searches for clues. The villain ended up being somewhat of a surprise with many twists and turns along the way. I loved all the clever nods to Jane Eyre.

Highly recommend this amazing start to a new series! Can’t wait to read the next book! This is a kisses only historical gothic romance. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher & author but also purchased through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own & voluntarily provided.

I received an ARC of this book and I was so excited I did. This is my first time reading a book from this Author and I will definitely be reading more. This book has mystery, intrigue, suspense and great romance all in one book! The characters were amazing and the storyline was very well written and interesting. I just couldn't put it down! I can't wait to read more from this Author!

Secrets and legend are at the heart of this romance that has a gothic feel. Set in an estate along the Cornwall coastline the atmosphere is dark and brooding. Diana, the FMC, is a governess sent to the castle by her godmother to figure out what happened to her brother the former baronet. What she finds is the attractive heir to the estate, Captain William Fallbrook, her student, Miss Fallbrook who is described as wild and unteachable, and a staff that is keeping secrets. The more Diana learns about the estate and its inhabitants the more she wonders who can be trusted. Can she figure it out before someone else dies?

One of my favorite parts is the legend of the mermaid, how can I not love a legend complete with a chamber dedicated to it?!?! Especially when it is said to have been built out of love. Diana is an enjoyable character. She is determined, thoughtful, resourceful, and wants to figure out how to help Miss Fallbrook. As with any good MMC there are hidden emotions beneath Captain William Fallbrook’s gruff exterior. The romance was closed door with just kisses and meaningful looks. The mystery kept me guessing and reading to figure it out. This was an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this book to readers that enjoy gothic mysteries and romances.

A Haunting Gothic Romance Filled with Mystery
What secrets lurk behind the doors of Pendowar Hall, and will Diana survive uncovering them? A suspicious death, whispers of a curse, and strange occurrences cast a shadow over the grand estate. Determined to honor a promise to her godmother, Diana sets out to unravel the truth—but investigating murder is a perilous endeavor. As she falls for the enigmatic master of Pendowar Hall, one question lingers: Is he the man of her dreams or a dangerous killer?
This gripping tale kept me turning the pages late into the night. With its perfect blend of romance, suspense, and eerie atmosphere, it’s a must-read for fans of Gothic and historical mysteries. This was my first book by this author, and I can't wait to read more!

A well-written sweet romance, sort of a gothic theme with a murder mystery. Diana is patient, smart, and loyal, and vows to never fall in love after two bad experiences with relationships. But her new employer Captain Fallbrook is anything she had expected. He is handsome and interesting, suffering from a wound from war and PTSD as he tries to settle into the role of estate owner something he never wanted, and the guardian of his niece, a teenager with reading disabilities. Not only is Diana able to be the first governess to help his niece learn to read, but she is also the first to get under his skin, but the murder mysteries surrounding the estate have her tracing down the truth, leading her into a dangerous place. I loved the twists and turns, the sweet romance with the grumpy sunshine trope. Plus the background setting is awesome.
Thank you to the publisher and author for this copy.

syrie james delivered a captivating blend of mystery with a hint of romance in the mysteries of pendowar hall. the atmospheric seaside setting and the gothic undertones immediately drew me, and created a sense of intrigue and suspense that was woven throughout the story. the lore surrounding pendowar hall was rich and compelling and kept me turning the pages.

diana’s relationships with the fallbrooks was my favorite part of the story. her bond with emma was especially heartwarming, and her dynamic with william added a touching emotional element. their interactions were tender and believable. i couldn’t help but root for their connection as the mystery deepened and even threatened their lives.

the mystery itself was masterfully crafted, and kept me guessing until the very end. just when you think you have it figured out, james throws in unexpected twists that keep the tension high. the mysteries of pendowar hall is a beautifully written and thoroughly engaging read. it’s perfect for fans of abigail wilson who enjoy historical mystery with a touch of romance and a gothic edge.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
content: kisses

thank you to the author, dragonblade publishing, and austenprose for the gifted copy. my thoughts are my own.

To start off, Thank you for the e-arc of the book. I enjoy reading a good gothic mystery. There is something so fun about reading these kinds of books. I enjoyed my time with the characters. I enjoyed the setting of the book as well. The author did a great job creating atmosphere to support the overall vibe. I would read more by this author in the future! four stars.

What genre is your comfort read? One of my favorite types of comfort reads is Gothic romantic suspense.

Governess Diana Taylor has been sent by her Godmother to Pendowar Hall in Cornwall to teach her Godmother’s niece, Emma Fallbrook, and to investigate the mystery of her Godmother’s brother’s (the former Baronet’s) death. The new owner of the estate is the former baronet’s nephew, Captain William Fallbrook. The Captain is home recovering from a wound. He is handsome and charismatic, but it’s rumored he has a woman in every port. Is he all that he seems? What is the mermaid’s curse, and did it cause the previous baronet’s death?

My thoughts on this novel:
• I liked how Diana was a caring governess and helped her ward Emma build her confidence by trying to figure out the facts behind the death of her father as well as help her with her learning disability. Diana was a strong woman and kept on working on solving the mystery, while helping others and finding romance for herself. I always enjoy stories that involve governesses.

• The Captain was an intriguing and mysterious romantic figure.

• I loved all the references to Jane Eyre. The entire novel had a Jane Eyre vibe to it, but I especially loved the meeting of Diana and the Captain. It reminded me so much of the meeting between Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester.

• The cover of this novel is beautiful. Blue is my favorite color.

• This is the first novel in the new series – The Audacious Sisterhood of the Smoke and Fire. I like the series title. I can’t wait for the next book. I also hope that Diana and her sisters will be able to start their own school as they planned.

• I loved the mysteries and the gothic romance. It was a great escapism read and reminded me of some of my favorite authors in this genre including Daphne Du Maurier, Victoria, Holt, and Mary Stewart.

• This was a clean read. The book had a good romance, but mostly focused on the mystery.

• This novel had a great setting. I always love mysterious manors on the coast of Cornwall.

Overall, The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall by Syrie James was a riveting start to a great new series with a captivating Gothic romantic suspense mystery.

Book Source: Review copy from Dragonblade Publishing as part of the Austenprose PR Book Tour. Thank-you! Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was an enjoyable historical mystery set in Victorian times with a strong gothic vibe. Diana, a strong female protagonist, has gone to Pendowar Hall at the request of her elderly godmother to be a governess to her niece who has a reputation for being a difficult student and to look the mysterious death of her brother, the girl's father. Diana, and her two sisters, had a reputation growing for solving mysteries and hopes to use that talent at Pendowar Hall that has a supposed Mermaid's Curse that results in death if the governess fell in love with the master. The new owner of the Hall, Captain Fallbrook, was somewhat taciturn but a growing attraction between the two left Diana in a precarious position. Should she trust her heart, which had betrayed her before, and risk death? Or would she finally find love and solve the Mysteries of Pendowar Hall?

I liked Diana. She has a stronger character than many stars of gothic stories. Some of her behavior may be a bit ahead of her time but not so glaring that I can't believe it. I really liked how she struggled with her charge, Emma, who believed that she was not smart because she couldn't read and didn't even see the point in trying. In modern terms we would call it dyslexia but that was not recognized in any form at that time. Diana tried a variety of approaches to help Emma and through trial and error came up with some methods. But it wasn't an immediate fix. Very realistic.

The romance was a minor storyline but nicely portrayed. The mystery was the star of the show. There were a number of facets to the mystery and it kept me guessing until near the end and had an exciting finale. I look forward to reading more of this series.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

This has got to be the most intriguing historical mystery I've read so far! This book has so many complexities and problems to be solved.

Did Lord Fallbrook really commit suicide? Why is Captain William Fallbrook so mysterious? Why can no governess handle Lady Fallbrook?

And then there is the new governess, Diana, who is determined to solve these mysteries before her godmother passes.

But when the curse of Pendowar Hall involving a governess and her lord comes to light, will she be able to break it or will she succumb to it as well?

I love how many genres this book has, it literally has all of my favorites: Victorian historical fiction, mystery, and romance!

I also loved how independent Diana was for her time and her aspirations to open her own school. I can't wait to see more, perhaps more of her sisters and their own story?