Book

Mysteries of Thorn Manor

📖 Overview

This novella continues the story of sorcerer Elisabeth Scrivener and demon librarian Nathaniel Thorn from Sorcery of Thorns. The two now reside in Thorn Manor, which has developed a peculiar tendency to rearrange itself and trap its inhabitants within enchanted rooms. As Elisabeth prepares to host her first Midwinter party, the manor's strange behavior intensifies. She and Nathaniel must solve the mystery behind the house's actions while navigating their growing relationship and meeting social obligations. Their investigation leads them through magical puzzles and hidden chambers, accompanied by the demon Silas. The story combines romance and magical adventure as the characters race against time to understand the manor's secrets. The narrative explores themes of trust, partnership, and the ways homes can hold both memories and magic. It serves as a bridge between past and present while examining how relationships adapt to new circumstances.

👀 Reviews

Readers value this novella as a light, romantic continuation of Sorcery of Thorns, though many note it works better as a companion piece than a standalone story. Liked: - The playful interactions between Elisabeth and Nathaniel - Development of side characters like Silas - The magical house's puzzles and challenges - Retains the original book's humor and warmth Disliked: - Length (too short at 192 pages) - Less plot depth compared to the original novel - Some found the romance scenes overly sweet - Price point ($11.99) considered high for the length One reader noted: "It reads like well-written fan fiction - enjoyable but not essential to the main story." Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (12,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (1,200+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.7/5 (200+ ratings) Most reviewers recommend it for existing fans of the series but suggest new readers start with Sorcery of Thorns first.

📚 Similar books

The Enchanted Crown by ::Bethany Atazadeh:: A royal mage and a cursed prince navigate magic-filled halls and ancient secrets in their gothic manor while racing to break a family curse.

House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig Twelve sisters live in a seaside manor where dark magic, ghostly visions, and family mysteries merge as they vanish one by one.

The Near Witch by V.E. Schwab In a town where witches live in old manors on the moor, a girl uncovers the truth behind local legends and missing children.

Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones A carpet merchant becomes entangled with djinn, enchanted castles, and magical objects while trying to rescue captured princesses.

Magic for Liars by Sarah Gailey A detective investigates a murder at a school of magic where her estranged sister teaches, uncovering family secrets and magical mysteries.

🤔 Interesting facts

🌟 Mysteries of Thorn Manor is a novella that serves as a sequel to Sorcery of Thorns, taking place six months after the events of the first book. 🏰 The story explores the peculiar magical defenses of Thorn Manor, which become activated when Elisabeth and Nathaniel attempt to host their first dinner party as a couple. ✒️ Author Margaret Rogerson wrote this book during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing inspiration from the feelings of being trapped at home. 📚 Unlike many YA fantasy authors, Rogerson tends to write standalone novels rather than series, making this novella a rare companion piece to her work. 🎨 The book's cover art was created by Charlie Bowater, who also illustrated the cover of Sorcery of Thorns, maintaining visual continuity between the two works.