In a Nutshell: A historical Gothic mystery with paranormal shades. Jane Eyre vibes, but with added eeriness. Great atmosphere, good plot and twist, decent characters, slowburn. Could have worked even better with more depth to the characters and more detailing of some plot points.

Plot Preview:
1885. When a young woman, trying to escape from the police, bumps into a stranger and breaks her ankle, little does she know that life as she knew it will change forever. To her surprise, the man, Marcus Greybourne, convinces the policeman that she is his reclusive wife. He takes her back to his home, the crumbling Ravenswood Hall, and tells her that he will keep her safe if she agrees to the charade and pretends to be his wife Luna, who seems to be nowhere around. The new “Luna” has no choice but to agree. But she soon realises that the woman she is impersonating is known locally as the Ravenswood Witch, and is despised as an immoral and mad woman who dabbled in the dark arts. The home, with its myriad scratches and marks, also bears signs of her. What has “Luna” gotten herself into? Did she escape one fate to jump into a more dire one?
The story comes to us from two timelines in the third-person perspectives of “Luna”.

In my review of ‘No. 23 Burlington Square’, the only other book I’ve read of this author, I wrote the following line: “Imaginative in concept, somewhat slow in progress, interesting in plot development, okay in character development.” The exact same feedback is applicable even this time around.

Bookish Yays:
✨ The two timelines are equally gripping. Each has enough drama to contribute to the story.
✨ The connection between the two narratives is great, with one outstanding twist. I won't go into details for fear of spoilers, but will just say that this redeemed the book in my eyes to a great extent.
✨ The atmosphere is excellent. This is a Gothic mystery with a Gothic house and spooky woods around it, and the author makes great use of both these locations.
✨ The book straddles multiple genres: historical, dark fantasy, mystery, romance. Thankfully, it has its priorities in the right order, with the dark magic and the mystery dominating over the historical and the romance.
✨ There are plenty of intriguing characters in the book who aren’t ‘good’ but ‘grey’. Whether major character or minor, it is tricky to guess whom to trust or root for. Those who prefer likeable characters might not enjoy the book, but complex and conniving characters work better for me.
✨ Not everyone gets their due by the end, no matter what horrible deed they committed. If you prefer neat endings with justice for all, this might irk you. I liked the more realistic approach towards the depiction of how justice works in real life.
✨ Though the lead pair is in a romantic situation, romance isn't at the forefront of the story, and the spice content is at the minimal level.
✨ Bran the raven – always love it when animals are used well in the plot.

Bookish Mixed Bags:
🔮 “Luna” is intriguing as a character. All the issues in her arc get clarified after the link between the two narratives is established. But her dedication to being called ‘Luna” felt like it went too far, especially at the start.
🔮 Marcus being out of the scene for a great chunk of the first half doesn’t help us to see the connection form between him and “Luna”. But the chemistry between them feels fairly convincing in the second half, even though the foundation of the relationship is weird.
🔮 The writing is quite character-driven, which is both a pro and a con. The proceedings are more focussed on introspection than action for much of the story. As such, we get to know “Luna” decently thanks to her third-person perspective. But some of the other characters’ motivations and past actions could have been detailed out better.
🔮 Guessing the antagonist’s identity is easy, but it is not so easy to guess the mystery in its entirety.
🔮 The pacing is slow, which is somewhat expected in a character-oriented narrative. But the middle section is too repetitive, and hence feels dragged.
🔮 The witchcraft and dark magic adds just enough of intrigue and mystery to the plot. However, I wasn’t convinced by how the fake Luna knew so much about the witchy symbols and objects used in dark magic.
🔮 I am not so comfortable with the mental illness rep in the story, though it does align with the beliefs of the time period.
🔮 There is much animal brutality, though I do acknowledge that a story with elements of dark magic often resorts to this content.

Bookish Nays:
💥 The original Luna’s character had so much potential but the writing leaves her quite vague and shallow. Adding more depth to her character would have enhanced this novel.
💥 The ending is too smooth and rushed, and has many convenient explanations to tie the pending arcs neatly. Though the main points are explained well, I needed more answers. Some of the creepier events are left unexplained.
💥 Something in the dialogues makes the lines feel anachronistic, though I can’t put my finger on the exact reason. I remember saying the same thing in my review of ‘No. 23 Burlington Square’.

All in all, this is a good read for the spooky season, as long as you can suspend disbelief and go with the flow. The slow pace and the questionable character decisions at the start weren’t appealing, but once the timelines connected, the twist saved the book for me. The facts that it was less of a romance and more focussed on the Gothic mystery components also worked in my favour.
Recommended to readers who like complex characters, atmospheric storytelling, and don’t mind slowburn stories and characters getting away with bad behaviour.

3.5 stars, rounding up.

My thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books, for a complimentary copy of 'The Ravenswood Witch' via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

The digital version of this book is currently available free to Kindle Unlimited subscribers.

Such an amazing book! I read it so quickly, most of the time I forgot I was reading it. I'll be getting a physical copy as soon as I can. ❤️

The beginning of this book almost gave off Jane Eyre vibes so I was very excited. I found the idea of the plot interesting and the gothic theme to not be too spooky. I do feel like the pace slowed down quite a bit in the middle with a bit of repetitiveness. I also think the MMC wasn't developed enough to have the effect the story needed.

There were a couple surprise twists that I really enjoyed. I liked the FMC and I thought she was very well written. I liked how the author switched from last to present to share her backstory. If you enjoy gothic historical fiction then you will probably enjoy this.

"And when someone saves you like that, so dramatically, you are all but obliged to fall in love with them."

A mix of gothic and witchy novel perfect to start off October 🖤 Not too predictable, interesting characters and a woodsy cottage setting. I liked how the backstories were slowly unraveled before the final act. I wish there had been more slow burn action but oh well it's not a romance after all

PS: the raven being called Bran made me cackle


[Review posted on Goodreads and short one on Instagram]

Haunting, mysterious and a little bit dark in places, this wraps several stories into one narrative. Early on, it’s difficult to work out the exact identity of one of the main characters, but this plot device builds tension and makes for another layer to the story. Having read previous books by this author, I was expecting a good read but wasn’t sure if this was going to be a book for me given its magical nature, but I loved it! My favourite character is the Raven! 🐦‍⬛

A thumping good read 5*

My thanks to Rachel of Rachel’s Random Resources for the tour invite and to the publisher for the ebook to review via Netgalley. The Ravenswood Witch is the third book I’ve read by Jenni Keer – No 23 Burlington Square, At the Stroke of Midnight being previously reviewed here. As soon as I saw the word ‘Witch’ I was there, especially as it’s from Jenni, I didn’t need any persuading at all to say please to reviewing this.

This historical fiction with its setting in 1885 has as its background a rather neglected big old house, suspicious characters and chilling supernatural elements. On the run from the police during which she injures herself, a young woman takes refuge at Ravenwood at the invitation of its brooding owner Marcus Greybourne, the only other occupants being his housekeeper and her husband – the latter whose behaviour is rather disturbing and unfriendly. In return, she will publicly pretend to be Greybourne’s missing wife Luna. I was intrigued from the beginning and had questions – where was the real Luna and would she return to find an imposter in her place – despite the likeness between the two women surely people would realise? Further what was the real identity of the ‘imposter’ and who had been killed to result in such a desperate escape.

There is a smallish cast of characters here with the setting mainly in Ravensbourne House and its grounds but the story is no less disturbing. There is significant internal destruction and witchcraft and occult symbols are everywhere – presumably made by the real Luna, who was viewed with much fear and distrust by the villagers for they perceived her as the Ravenswood Witch. There are two strands to the story, one of which initially led me down a different garden path. The eventual blending of the two stories results in a shocking revelation. With ghostly apparitions and witchcraft tokens, this is a superbly creepy and mysterious story with rather dark characters committing evil deeds.

The supernatural element and that constant feeling of foreboding kept my interest throughout and for much of the book I was never quite sure which events were true or a manifestation of imagination or even who could be trusted. Much like the pretend Luna, I was never sure of Marcus’ role in his wife’s disappearance although that didn’t stop her developing a sympathetic attachment. The atmospheric setting of the old house and surrounding forest certainly had that sinister factor – and I haven’t mentioned the Ravens!

I’ve said before that Jenni Keer has become a must read author. I love her style of writing with the ability to immediately hook me into a story. This is a book that could be read at any time but with Halloween fast approaching, it would be superb candidate for a spooky read.

This is a dark and sinister gothic novel which introduces us to Ravenswood and the story of a young woman, rescued from harm, who is prepared to enter into an odd arrangement with Marcus Greybourne who is the enigmatic owner of the house. In agreeing to pretend to be Luna Greybourne, his estranged wife, this, as yet, unnamed young woman receives a place of safety and even though the dark and shadowy corners reverberate with menace, she is prepared to stay at Ravenswood as her own secrets, if revealed, would place her grave danger.

There are lots of spooky moments in this gothic mystery and there were definitely times when I found myself, particularly when reading at night, jumping at shadows. The author has captured the menacing atmosphere of Ravenswood well and brings to life a cast of characters who are all flawed and some are just downright evil. I especially enjoyed the company of Bran, the raven, who brings an interesting element and shows the intelligence of Corvids. With a couple of unexpected twists which I didn’t see coming The Ravenswood Witch is nicely spooky and with a chilling, atmospheric presence throughout, I think it would make a perfect read for Halloween.

Thank you to @rachelsrandomresources for my copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I read No 23 Burlington Square by Jenni and loved it, so jumped at the chance to read and review her new book. I’m so glad I did as this was such a fabulous twisty witch story perfect for this time of year.

We meet our main character as she is running for her life and collides with a gentleman who inadvertently breaks her ankle. He offers to take care of her until it is healed and this is where the story gets interesting. There are flashback chapters from her previous life setting the scene for her escape. We also meet some kind and not so kind characters in the village, and their ancient beliefs.

I love how this story unfolds, strange goings on that make you wonder who is who and who is telling the truth - and more importantly what the truth is.

This was a beautiful story. I loved the two main characters had difficult situations. Two individuals ran into each other in the middle of town. The female assumes the role as Luna, the man's wife. The female is given the role of a lifetime after escaping the accusation of murder. This book has so many twist and turns. I feel like it was totally great read. I don't want to spoil anything. I will recommend to friends and family.

I'd enjoyed two of Jenni Keer's previous titles in the past, and so I was really looking forward to 'The Ravenswood Witch'. Especially because of the whole witchy thing and spooky season is upon us after all.

A nameless young woman is running away from a possible destiny with the noose, trying to make her way to a ferry to go live in the city, when she collides with Marcus Greybourne and hurts her ankle. When the local constable comes across them, Marcus convinces him that the nameless young woman is his wife of ten years, Luna. If the nameless young woman agrees to keep up this charade, Marcus promises he will keep her safe.

But there are weird things happening at his house. Odd carvings and writings, dark and oppressive rooms, padlocks, scorch marks ... it's not quite the welcoming home one would wish for. The real Luna was known around the local village as being a witch, even considered responsible for the death of one of the locals. But where is she? Is she dead, or alive? Did Marcus kill her? What's up with the Webbers? Can "fake" Luna even trust any of these people? And what does any of this have to do with the flashbacks chapters?

Plenty of mysterious goings-on to sink your teeth into, I'd say. Unfortunately, I personally felt there was't enough of the witchy and spooky, and too much of the romance, which is really not my thing. I was on the wrong track with trying to figure out how "fake" Luna was connected to the chapters set in the past. However, I did figure out who had a hand in the strange happenings, so that reveal didn't come as a surprise to me.

There was a distinct lack of creepiness for me. Not that there wasn't room for it because there were moments, especially in the middle of the book, where it felt like nothing much was happening. I never really felt drawn in, didn't really warm to these characters (I'd say my favourite character was a bird so you know), never felt unsettled like I was hoping for, and had a hard time believing in the instant connection between Marcus and "fake" Luna. Also, did I mention romance really isn't my cup of tea?

All in all, I'd say I wasn't the right audience for 'The Ravenswood Witch'. It was an okay read, but it didn't come anywhere near 'No. 23 Burlington Square', which still remains a favourite.

"It was as though the house had crawled from the darkness of the trees and collapsed as soon as it had ventured into the daylight."

The Ravenswood Witch is a book so completely different from what I normally read, yet I was enticed by the pretty cover and even more so by the intriguing premise. A young girl, running away from alleged murder, coming across a man who seems to simply adopt her as his wife of ten years. What did the girl do? Where is the wife? What happened to her? What is happening in the manor and its woods the young girl is now to call her home? Will she ever be able to leave again?

So as said, I was pulled in by the premise. I was pulled in even further by the creepy vibes that were literally oozing from the page. With the vivid scene descriptions (much like the one above), it was not hard to conjure up an image of what the Ravenswood Mansion and woods must have looked like. It was easy to imagine what "Luna" must have felt getting to know the house, its mysterious owner, and all the other villagers. That's another thing that makes this book a gripping read actually, its host of wonderful characters (including an epic raven by the name of Bran), none of whom you will ever fully be able to trust as a reader.

The plot was interesting enough, and, while I had guessed pretty much every 'reveal', I noticed that I kept turning the pages to find out whether I had guessed things right. Way to make me feel smart I suppose. If you are looking for a hugely atmospheric read, with some rather unique characters, some spookiness and witchcraft, and a bit of romance, look no further.

I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.

I was drawn in from the start, and intrigued by the scenario presented to me. I wanted to know more about the protagonist, who seemed to be running away from something, and about the stranger who came to her aid.

I always enjoy gothic books, so I loved the atmosphere. As I carried on reading, I became more and more invested, and intrigued to find out the truth.

This was a gripping gothic mystery with some romance to boot, and I found it very satisfying. If you enjoy gothic books or historical mysteries, particularly in the 1800s, you might want to give this book a try.

Thank you to NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, and Boldwood Books, for the opportunity to read and review this.

A delightfully clever book, perfect for autumn reading.

It truly keeps you wrapped in the mystery until the climax, and much like the main character, keeps you guessing on where and who can really be trusted.

The interweaving on the Past chapters with the Present chapters is marvellous and creates an wonderfully unique experience where the character knows more about their situation than the reader does. It allows you to participate with the façade that the main duo establish in chapter 1, and in turn makes you enthralled with their stories that they keep under wraps.

Highly recommended, such an atmospheric, intimate mystery, unusual in all the best ways.

This was a spellbinding novel, full of menace and building tension. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The descriptions of the house and it's decay was brilliant. The characters and description of the period were really well written. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me access to an early copy of this novel.

The plot of The Ravenswood Witch was a little different to other books of this genre which made this all the more compelling to read.

The book is set in 1885, and Ms. Keer does an excellent job in portraying the period, along with the setting of a derelict and run down house in which the main character finds herself. The house oozes with mystery and secrets and she finds herself wondering if in escaping the hangman's noose, she has stumbled into a more dark and dangerous situation.

This is an outstanding novel, and I will even go as far as saying it is amongst the best books I have read this year.

Jenni Keer’s “The Ravenswood Witch” is an enthralling blend of mystery, magic, and heartwarming human connection. From the first page, Keer pulled me into the quaint village of Ravenswood, where the air is full of secrets, and the past whispers through. The book masterfully balances elements of historical intrigue, romance, and the supernatural.

One of the standout features of “The Ravenswood Witch” is Keer's ability to create a rich setting.Keer’s vivid descriptions bring the fictional village to life, and as you follow the protagonist, you can't help but be transported there, feeling the weight of its mysteries. The way she intertwines the eerie past with present-day discoveries kept me turning the pages.

The characters are another highlight of the novel. The protagonist is a compelling figure—flawed yet determined. Her journey of uncovering the truth behind the legends of Ravenswood is beautifully handled. Relationships, whether familial, romantic, or friendly, are tenderly crafted, providing warmth and heart among the darker, magical elements.

Keer excels at blending the supernatural with human emotion, never allowing one to overpower the other. The magic feels natural and grounded, yet still filled with wonder. The pacing of the book is excellent, building tension and revealing secrets at just the right moments, with plenty of twists that will keep readers guessing until the very end. I highly recommend it!

This was pretty good! Definitely perfect cozy, fall, spooky season read. Not the most jaw dropping but definitely some twists and turns, and the ending picked up a lot with the pacing and I was waiting for that, so glad it happened. There were some lulls especially when it felt like she was just living in the house all day with nothing much happening, but three quarters of the way it picked up. Overall I do recommend, excellent fall season read, but not necessarily going on the favorites shelf.

I would like to thank Netgalley and Boldwood Books for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Boring.

Published yesterday, September 30th, 2024, I delayed my review until October because the book's vibe — dark woods, ravens, witchcraft, haunted house and secretive behaviours—belongs in the month of Halloween.

The Ravenswood Witch is an enthralling five-star page-turner.
The Ravenswood Witch is a spellbinding gothic mystery from the bestselling author of No.23 Burlington Square, Jenni Keer ‘There are a lot of shadows at Ravenswood, so you will need to be strong…’

The novel starts with a young woman running from the life she knows. She must escape to London to be caught, which means the gallows poll. Her goal of reaching the ferry is within sight, but then she collides with a stranger. She falls and breaks her ankle…. Then, Marcus Greybourne reinvents her as his reclusive wife, Luna, protecting her from the grasp of the law.

Marcus saved her from hanging but brought the injured Eloise/Luna into a house full of dark mystery. It is neglected trapped and injured in her bed she hears strange noises and is surrounded by strange scratchings on the woodwork.

Who are her allies? Who can be trusted? The cunning man helps her ankle heal building trust between them. The villagers are scared of her and call her a witch. When she rescues the last raven of Ravenswood, naming him Bran he becomes her constant companion. Further evidence that she is a witch with her familiar.

There is light, the shared love of flowers with Marcus as he begins to repair the dilapidated house and white butterflies.

There are many twists and turns, with unreliable characters for the reader to navigate. The climax takes place on All Hallows Eve. Truth is revealed as masks are peeled away at the source of the rumours the well deep in Ravenswood.

Jenni Kerr cleverly creates for the reader the world of a small community in the late nineteenth century. The characters are superbly drawn and fit the setting perfectly. Power and superstition make a heady concoction, In the novel Jane Eyre, collides with The Woman in White and merges into a thrilling mystery written for 2024. The Ravenswood Witch is an enthralling page-turner.

A gothic and dark historical fiction that kept me hooked as I wanted to know what was behind the events and what was going to happen.
It made me think of Rebecca at times and I like the descriptions of the Hall and the fleshed out characters
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine