I adored this book!
In this story we follow Callie, who after a visit at Harling Hall, she gets offered to become the owner of the estate. Why? Because she reported two men fighting each other, the catch? That both men were ghosts and she’s the only one seeing them.
I absolutely adored the vibes that this book had. Meeting all the ghosts was super fun, and I’m super intrigued to meet all the others we still have to get to know. Callie was an amazing MC to follow as she’s new to this job, so it was nice to figure how everything worked alongside her. My only “problem” was the romance. We only got too little scenes for me to warm up to it, so it felt kind of rushed by the end. However I also think this story stands even without the romance, so it didn’t bother me much. I would absolutely recommend this if you’re in need of a fast paced and cozy read! Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc copy in exchange for an honest review.

"Kindred Spirits at Harlingen Hall" by Sharon Booth, published by Boldwood Books, is a truly heartwarming read that offers a gentle escape into a world of love, family, and a touch of the extraordinary.
The book beautifully explores the many facets of love, weaving together themes of enduring love that transcends death, the unwavering bond of family, and the sweet blossoming of romance. The author has crafted a narrative that celebrates love in all its forms, creating a warm and comforting atmosphere.
The theme of "found family" is particularly strong, and it's truly touching to witness the characters come together and support one another. This sense of belonging is a central part of the story's charm.
The romantic element is sweet and gentle.
Sharon Booth has created a truly unique and creative story. The blend of elements is handled with a delicate touch, resulting in a narrative that is both engaging and imaginative.
It was lovely to see the inclusion of a character with dyslexia. As someone who has dyslexia, I appreciated the effort to bring awareness to this experience. While the portrayal didn't entirely resonate with my own personal journey, I recognize and value the author's intention to create representation.
The book is imbued with a wonderful sense of coziness. It's the perfect read for a quiet evening, offering a comforting and uplifting experience. The happy endings for the characters provide a satisfying sense of closure, leaving the reader with a warm feeling.
The ending hints at a continuation of the story, and I am genuinely eager to see what adventures await the characters in the future. I believe many readers will find themselves drawn into the world of Harlingen Hall and will be looking forward to the next installment. "Kindred Spirits at Harlingen Hall" is a gentle story that offers a comforting escape and a reminder of the power of love and connection.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. All thoughts are my own and my review is voluntary. I appreciate the opportunity.

A quick, easy and funny read that I read in a very short time because I just couldn't put it down. I will definitely be looking out for more from the author

Fantasy Romance | Ghosts, Estates & Missed Potential

As a huge fan of the BBC series Ghosts, I was so excited to read Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall. A fantasy romance with a historic village, an old estate, and a cast of charming spirits? It sounded right up my alley. Unfortunately, despite my high hopes, this one just didn’t work for me.

The story starts with Callie, a single mum chaperoning her daughter’s class on a school excursion to a beautiful Cotswolds village. While there, she discovers she can see and communicate with the resident ghosts—something that extends to the estate house when she visits. This immediately intrigued me, and I enjoyed the early setup. Eventually, the ghosts’ perspectives are introduced, and they seem like fascinating characters… but they couldn’t quite carry the story on their own.

And then there’s Callie - she's a weak character and I struggled to root for her. For a single, working mother who hasn't had many opportunities in life she didn't seem to be self-aware or mature.

I can suspend disbelief for a fantasy romance—ghosts, magical inheritances, the whole deal—but what I couldn’t believe was Callie’s reluctance to accept ownership of the estate. I get that this was meant to create dramatic tension, particularly with Brodie, the disinherited grandson and love interest, but it felt forced. This was a life-changing opportunity for her and her daughter, and I just didn’t see the downside. Her motivations felt shaky, and unfortunately, my frustration with her only grew from there.

I need to root for a protagonist, and with Callie, I kept thinking: You’re an adult. Ask questions. Ask for help. Don’t make things harder than they need to be. So many of the obstacles she faced seemed unnecessary or easily solvable, which made the story feel frustrating rather than engaging.

By the time I put the book down, the story including the romance felt completely lackluster, and I found myself wishing we had more time in the ghosts’ perspectives instead. Maybe my expectations were too high, but this one just wasn’t for me.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC! All opinions are my own.

This book was such an enjoyable cozy low-stakes fantasy read. The ghosts are funny, meddlesome, and complex, reflecting the times they came from and their adaptations to the modern era in unique ways. I loved the protagonist, Callie, and could really relate to her frustration with old/traditional ways of doing things that didn’t seem to make sense to her. Her energy and enthusiasm to make change despite grumbling from others who wanted everything to stay the same was such a relatable journey to witness. The familial relationships were beautifully portrayed with so many different bonds highlighted and the characters maturing and growing in the face of change and revelation at the estate. I’m excited to see the characters again in a sequel!

Oh. My. Ghosts. This book was EVERYTHING! Cozy, charming, and just the perfect amount of whimsy, it totally swept me away to the enchanting village of Rowan Vale. Like, imagine moving to a gorgeous Cotswold village only to find out it comes with a built-in cast of ghosts? SIGN ME UP. 👻

Callie was such a relatable protagonist—stubborn, a little lost, but full of heart. Watching her go from trying to suppress her gift to embracing it (with some, ahem, spirited guidance) was just chef’s kiss. And the ghosts?? They were truly the highlight—hilarious, dramatic, and each with their own little quirks that made them feel so alive (pun intended). I just know they’re going to bring even more chaos in the next book, and I can’t wait.

Now, let’s talk romance. I won’t lie, I wanted just a tad more slow-burn tension, but the dynamic between Callie and Brodie was still super fun. Enemies-to-allies-to-maybe-something-more? Yes, please. I have a sneaky suspicion there’s a lot more to Brodie’s story, and I am dying to know where it goes.

All in all, this was the coziest, most delightful paranormal read. If you love found family, a bit of ghostly mischief, and a touch of romance, you NEED this in your life. Huge thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts—so grateful I got to experience this magical world! ✨

Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall is a charming slice of life cozy with a hint of magic and a great cast of characters. It’s a perfect haven full of friendship, healing and connection in a wonderful old estate in rural England. I loved reading about Harling Hall and its quirky residents and quickly found myself charmed by even the prickliest of them, though I did get quite exasperated with a few in the early stages of the story. Recommend for a cozy, country romp.

This book is cute and cozy. Definitely one I personally would have loved to save for a chilly fall weekend with a blanket and a cup of tea.

The cast of characters (both living and not) was charming, and I enjoyed the multiple POVs—they gave the story some extra personality. The pacing was a bit slower than I usually prefer, but that’s pretty typical for a cozy read. I think I probably enjoyed the vibes more than the plot, which isn’t a bad thing!

As a mom, I enjoy stories about parenthood/family, and that theme stood out to me. Callie’s relationship with Immi and the way the story explores chosen family was heartwarming. Also, I love that Callie held out for, what, a single chapter before deciding, actually, yes, I do want to uproot my family's life and be the caretaker and owner of this haunted estate. Honestly, fair — take me with you, please. I did get a little frustrated by the amount of times Callie was second guessing herself—especially after making the decision to move. And while I get why the romance subplot was there, it felt forced and I wasn't invested.

Overall it was a feel-good, cozy read, though probably not a series I'll be dying to dig back into.

What a cute read! This book was very well written, and I really enjoyed the cast of characters.

Because she is consistently frazzled and argumentative, Callie is a fun narrator. She is always sticking her nose in places it only sort of belongs, and I love seeing those same traits in her daughter. The ghosts were all great too! It can be hard to craft a full cast without feeling like any of the characters overlap personality wise, but each person really shines in their own way.

Structurally, I LOVED the first half of this read. However, by the second half, I was wondering if anything else was going to happen. I still enjoyed the entirety of the novel! I just thought there might be a little more plot than there was. I kept waiting for a new ghost to appear or for the characters to find a way to send all of the ghost further along in their after life journeys. But nope. The second half of the book was just domestic.

I wish the relationships and the latter half of the plot would have been a bit more dynamic (conflict was solved almost as soon as it was raised), but it didn't take away from my overall enjoyment of Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall. It was a cozy read, and I imagine it would be even more perfect on a fall evening with Halloween around the corner.

I would definitely read another book set at Harling Hall!

A charmingly spooky novel, Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall gives wonderful small town, ghost vibes in a delightful way. The characters are colourful and fun, and I can’t wait to see where the rest of the series goes.

A cute cosy read - perfect for fans of BBC's Ghosts! Enjoyable read but I feel I may have read it at the wrong time personally as would have preferred the ghosty atmosphere more towards autumn

Easy read and enjoyable characters

I just loved this book! I just couldn’t put it down. I just loved this story and all the different characters the living and the ghosts! It’s such a heartwarming book and I wish it was real.

I would highly recommend reading this book if you love a heartwarming story with amazing characters. I really hope there are more books in this series as this book was so good.

I would like to thank Boldwood Books and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book early.

A very cute read with loveable characters and just the right amount of spooky! An intriguing plot with a storyline that was well written, the only down fall was that it took me a little while to get into it as the beginning didn’t really hook me.

Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall has a little bit o everything or everyone! You like romance? Got it. You like supernatural stories? Got it. You like a little history? Got it too!

Ghosts is one of my favorite shows of all time and one of my comfort shows and this book has the same vibes so I loved ate it up. Booth's writing style also leans into the vibes and makes for a fun and light read.

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.

Loved it and couldn't put it down...read it in one day! What an interesting read with a wonderful cast of characters. I was excited when I heard that it's for fans of the TV series Ghosts, since that's one of my favourites. Can't wait for the rest of the series to come out. I'll highly recommend this to my friends. Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing this eARC.

Review of Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall

Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall is a charming and whimsical blend of romance, history, and the supernatural. Set in the picturesque Cotswolds, the novel introduces readers to Rowan Vale, a living museum village with an unexpected twist—its ghostly residents are very much real, and only Callie, a single mother visiting with her daughter, seems able to see them.

The story has a cozy, almost Ghosts-like charm, with a delightful cast of spectral characters ranging from a mischievous 1940s schoolgirl to a former tutor of Shakespeare himself. The premise of Callie inheriting the estate under the condition that she protects both the living and the dead is intriguing and provides a solid foundation for plenty of heartwarming (and often humorous) moments.

Callie is a relatable protagonist—strong, caring, and refreshingly down-to-earth. Her interactions with both the ghosts and the villagers add warmth to the story, and the slow-burn romance with Brodie, the disinherited grandson, brings an engaging layer of tension. While the romance is sweet, it sometimes takes a backseat to the book’s other elements, which may leave some romance-focused readers wanting more.

The writing is light and engaging, making this an easy, feel-good read. However, the pacing occasionally drags in places, particularly as Callie adjusts to her new role. Some of the ghostly characters could also have been given a little more depth, as their personalities sometimes lean into caricature rather than complexity.

Overall, Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall is an enjoyable, cozy read perfect for fans of gentle supernatural tales with a touch of romance. While not overly deep or surprising, its charm and warmth make it an appealing escape into a world where history and the present collide in the most delightful way.

Rating: 4/5

‘Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall’ by Sharon Booth
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC copy of this book! The following is an honest review.

Callie is a single mom just trying to keep her life on track. After chaperoning her daughter’s class trip, she’s forced to come to terms with the fact that she’s blocked her ability to see ghosts for years! Now the owner of a historical village and estate knows about this too! Lawrie, the aging owner with the same gift, has a once in a lifetime offer for her, take over the estate and manage the ghosts and residents alike!

This was a really sweet tale!

I’m not usually one for a cozy low stakes tale, but this one really worked its way into my heart! Maybe it was all the undeniable British charm? Or the haughty haunted shenanigans?

I couldn’t find faults in the colorful cast of ghostly characters or the residents of Rowan Vale. The charm just wrapped the story in a big fuzzy blanket!

Overall this is a cozy paranormal world with room for more tales and more spectral characters! If you need a soothing story with low stakes and a paranormal sitcom feel you’ll love this!

Sharon Booth has written a charming and magical story in "Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall". Set in the picturesque Cotswolds, it features a delightful mix of living and ghostly characters, with the right amount of humour, mystery, and romance. This book is perfect for fans of cosy contemporary paranormal stories with slow-burn clean romance.

Callie, the main character, is easy to relate to. It’s enjoyable to see her embrace her special ability while dealing with the unique residents of Rowan Vale and the challenges of being a single mum. The ghosts bring a lot of personality to the story, making it warm and funny. The budding romance with Brodie is sweet and leaves you wanting to know what might happen in future books.

If you enjoy BBC’s Ghosts, charming small-town stories, and feel-good tales about the paranormal, you won’t want to miss this book.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book!

I absolutely adored this book. Seriously so cozy and sweet!
If you’ve seen the show “Ghosts” and enjoyed it, you will absolutely eat this book up!

Just like most cozy style books, it is very slow moving. It took me a bit to fully get invested but I’m so glad I stuck it out!

Callie is a very stubborn and insecure woman, frustratingly I saw a lot of myself in her. 😂 But taking the chance on moving to the estate when it fell to her, she opened up an amazing new world that was far from “normal” (iykyk).

Reading her come to terms with her reality and gift after being so ashamed of it for so long, and seeing how truly beautiful it was through the eyes of her daughter… loved it.

I was so excited to realize at the end of the book that this was going to be a series. Soooo glad about that because I’m DYING to know more about the ghosts! And I have a prediction for Brodie that I am very curious to see if I’m correct.

My only gripe is that the romance felt a bit rushed and forced. I could have used more pining, longing glances, forced proximity, etc. The romance plot truly didn’t turn up until the 80% mark and I could have done without it, but I think I can see where it’s leading to be more prevalent in the next book. Totally fine with that, I just could have used more pining. Lol

If you liked “Ghosts” the show, and like cozy paranormal/fantasy books I cannot recommend this enough.

Thank you to NetGalley, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts are my own and are in no way influenced by early access to this title.