Review of 'Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall' by Sharon Booth
Review of 'Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall' by Sharon Booth
Release date: March 28th, 2025
Publisher: Booldwood Books
REVIEW
Oh my! I adored Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall. Author Sharon Booth has got an absolute winner with the start of this new series. This was the most fun, fabulous entertaining novel I have read in a long time. It just floats along like a dream you don’t want to wake from! It is pure delight and I could not stop following this eclectic mix of characters that captured my attention and heart. The dialogue is brilliant, witty and welcoming. Such a feel-good story that puts a real burst of energy and life into the spirit. The publisher mentions if you like BBC’s Ghosts series you will like this book. I have not watched it so I just might now. If it is anything like Sharon’s joyful creative novel, I certainly would be interested. Regardless, I think Sharon has done an amazing job with this new direction and I absolutely am dying to read the next instalment. This series will be forever on my must read list!
The story is set in the Cotswold village of Rowan Vale. I have not been to the Cotswolds but I have seen plenty of shows that showcase its beauty and charm. When lead character Callie visits with her daughter, she is captivated by this vibrant historical village. Quickly it is apparent this is not an ordinary place with ordinary residents. Callie is seen talking to ghosts which captures the attention of the older gentleman, Sir Lawrence Davenport, the owner/caretaker of this unique set up. Lawrence approaches Callie about buying the manor for ten pounds and taking care of its residents as he is ready to retire. She is stunned by his request but acknowledges she can see ghosts (a pre-requisite for this position): a gift she has subdued for many years due to various reasons. She tried to live a ‘normal’ life after growing up with her family who made her feel unacceptable due to her ability. But here in this setting such a gift is appreciated and essential. And as everything surfaces, she discovers much about herself and her daughter. Will she accept the role once she learns all about its residents and the challenges she will face with all their issues?
There is quite a delightful cast of characters (both living and ghosts) that I completely enjoyed. The wit/humour shared on these pages is priceless. Callie makes a huge impact on the residents’ lives and in turn this opens her up to areas of discovery as well as provides healing from her own past. But change stirs up the waters and in the process, she upsets a number of the residents (as well as the past owner) with her new ideas. When she disrupts the status quo, things get messy for a while but eventually her fresh vision adds new life and sparkle to this long standing village.
One other character I need to mention is Brodie, the grandson of Sir Lawrence. He is an important key figure in the plot who helps run the manor and village. Although Callie and Brodie get off to a bad start, events and time bring about changes in perceptions and their relationship. It’s a sort of enemies to lovers scenario but handled in an original creative way. By the end of the novel I was cheering these two and their exceptional teamwork. It will be exciting to see what the future holds for this couple and village. So I will be eagerly waiting for the next instalment!
This is a must read, best new 2025 romantic cosy mystery fantasy series, that will charm your heart and make you laugh and feel great! Loved it immensely and cannot rave enough about it. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a review copy.
