Synopsis: Irresistibly drawn to mysteries, if only to debunk them, reporter Lionel Page exposes supernatural frauds, swindlers, and charlatans. His latest case is an obsession—at least for an ancient and wealthy heiress: verify the authenticity of a lost Edgar Allan Poe manuscript circulating through New York City’s literary underworld. But the shrewd Regina Dunkle offers more than money. It’s a pact. Fulfill her request, and Lionel’s own notorious buried past, one he’s been running from since he was a child, will remain hidden.
As Lionel’s quest begins, so do the warnings. And where rare books go, murder follows. It’s only when Lionel meets enigmatic stranger Madison Hannah, his personal usher into the city’s secret history, that he realizes he’s being guided by a force more powerful than logic…and that he isn’t just following a story. He is the story.
Now that the true purpose of his mission is revealing itself in the most terrifying ways, it may finally be time for Lionel to believe in the unbelievable.
Review: I was very curious when I discovered the theme of this novel. An impossible manuscript of Edgar Allan Poe or even the somewhat paranormal side that the author has added? All this could only intrigue me! That’s also why I plunged into the story with pleasure.
Lionel is a journalist whose mission is to find and expose charlatans. But now, his past catches him up, a past he does not want to hear about, or even to remember. To prevent this, he spends a deal with a strange woman who wants him to find and authenticate a manuscript of Edgar Allan Poe. However, this investigation will take him on unsuspected paths that will change his life and that will allow him to meet Maddie.
I thought the ideas and the mix were very interesting and original, and if I was interested in events from a distance, I admit that I had a hard time getting into the story. I also admit that I have trouble explaining why, but perhaps it is due to the somewhat complex style of the author. I do not know.
An interesting novel in many ways, but with which I had a little trouble.
blodeuedd
To write a review for a book that I had trouble getting into is so hard. When I know why then it is easy, but when I can not put my finger on it…yeah how to explain it
Melliane
yes it’s really complicated
Lindsi
Bummer! It’s always hard when you can’t get lost in the story. It’s so much better when you forget where you are while you’re reading! I always want to be utterly engrossed in whatever book I’m reading.
Lindsi @ Do You Dog-ear?
Melliane
I agree with you
Lindsi
<3 <3 <3
Sophia Rose
I’m really curious since it involves a lost Poe manuscript. I might have to try it, but I’ll keep my expectations low when I do since you struggled with it.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Melliane.
Kimberly @ Caffeinated Reviewer
I enjoyed this and think that listening probably aided in my enjoyment.
Mary Kirkland
This sounds interesting. Sorry to hear you didn’t love it.
Heidi
At least you finished it even if you had trouble connecting with the story. Props to you for completing it!
Anne - Books of My Heart
Sorry it didn’t quite work for you. “My” Robin gave it 5 hearts. Thanks for the review!
Mogsy @ BiblioSanctum
Ooh, anything Poe related has my interest.
ShootingStarsMag
Sorry this wasn’t your most favorite! I am really curious. I love Edgar Allan Poe!
-Lauren
Carole Rae
This had such a promise. Glad you still enjoyed it a touch