Keeper of Enchanted Rooms (Thimbrel House #1)

Summary:

Rhode Island, 1846. Estranged from his family, writer Merritt Fernsby is surprised when he inherits a remote estate in the Narragansett Bay. Though the property has been uninhabited for more than a century, Merritt is ready to call it home—until he realizes he has no choice. With its doors slamming shut and locking behind him, Whimbrel House is not about to let Merritt leave. Ever.

Hulda Larkin of the Boston Institute for the Keeping of Enchanted Rooms has been trained in taming such structures in order to preserve their historical and magical significance. She understands the dangers of bespelled homes given to tantrums. She advises that it’s in Merritt’s best interest to make Whimbrel House their ally. To do that, she’ll need to move in, too.

Prepared as she is with augury, a set of magic tools, and a new staff trained in the uncanny, Hulda’s work still proves unexpectedly difficult. She and Merritt grow closer as the investigation progresses, but the house’s secrets run deeper than they anticipated. And the sentient walls aren’t their only concern—something outside is coming for the enchantments of Whimbrel House, and it could be more dangerous than what rattles within.(Summary and cover courtesy of goodreads.com)

Review:

Historical fantasy novels are up my alley when they work – and this one worked fabulously.  Essentially this is an alternative version of the world where individuals with magic are tracked genealogically with their percentage of magic known.  On the surface this storyline looks like it is going to be straightforward, but Holmberg weaves in several other elements to keep it interesting before culminating all together at the end. For those easily spooked, don’t worry, the beginning is a little spookier than the rest of the book although there are a few flashbacks to that storyline.

The characters really shine in this one, which isn’t a surprise as Holmberg always delivers on that aspect.  The interactions had me laughing out loud and that’s the part that gave me such delight: somewhat suspenseful, but I’m still getting some chuckles.  The only thing that kept me from rating it 5-stars was that there were a few slightly slower parts.  I’m looking forward to reading the sequels!

Warning: Contains some violence.

Rating: 4 stars!

Who should read it? Historical fantasy fans looking for a light suspense and romance.

Want to read the whole series?

• Heir of Uncertain Magic (Thimbrel House #2)

• Boy of Chaotic Making (Thimbrel House #3)