Series: Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #4 (Not Standalone)
Publication Date: 24th April 2023
Genre: Historical Gaslamp Fantasy, Mystery, Romance
4.2 Stars
One Liner: Things are getting dangerous!
The Gray Lady brings death. Coralie Floquet plans to marry soon but is worried after spotting the spectral of the Gray Lady. Tristan, aka Duke de Archambeau, asks Elinor to step in and help. The duo travels to a seaside estate to chase the spirit.
However, Elinor realizes that there’s a lot of ill will around her, and people can’t stop gossiping about her relationship with the Duke. There’s even a case of stolen government documents to deal with. As always, it’s up to Elinor to solve the cases (with the Duke, of course).
And… finally, Elinor might get to know the truth about the Duke’s dead wife.
The story comes from Elinor’s POV.
My Thoughts:
Finally, the romance track between Elinor and Tristan is established. They share some heated and cozy moments while also talking about the past, ghosts, and criminals.
The concept of the Gray Lady is very well done. It’s not scary (at all) but includes paranormal elements to create the atmosphere. (I wish there was a spooky lighthouse scene!)
Though there are different threads (subplots/ cases) in this one, there’s no confusion. In fact, the cases overlap when they should and head toward the next stage.
This book ups the danger levels. I feel the next book will have more danger, given Elinor is getting to know her true powers and hidden strengths.
I did miss Charlotte and Twyla in this one. Though Twyla was present only in the previous book, she made a strong impression. I so want to meet her again.
The book has more focus on the lives of the aristocracy and their hypocrisy, which is necessary for the plot. It shows both sides of the coin. While I hate one character, I feel for another and have mixed feelings about the third. (No spoilers)
Well, Elinor is betrayed (after all, there are multiple attacks on her), and I think I know who it is. Betrayal comes from someone you trust, so she is going to have a huge shock in the next book.
The track about her father’s murder doesn’t progress in this one. But there is a positive development in another aspect.
As always, the book deals with a few social themes by weaving them into the plot. The narration is a little slower this time, though it goes at a steady pace throughout.
To summarize, Gray Lady is an atmospheric mystery with a dash of romance and a tease of danger. This book will not work as a standalone. Read the series in the right order to enjoy it fully. I’m waiting for book five now.
My thanks to author Byrd Nash for the eARC of the book. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
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