Honest review of Ghastly Mistake: A Gaslamp Ghost Mystery

by Byrd Nash (Author)

Updated at: 18/01/2025

In the thrilling conclusion to the Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries, Elinor, a sharp-witted detective with the unique ability to communicate with ghosts, faces her greatest challenge yet. Accused of murder and on the run, she navigates a city plunged into chaos by rebellion, riot, and mysterious deaths. This gripping finale, Ghastly Mistake, sees Elinor confronting those responsible for her father's murder, uncovering a conspiracy that reaches the highest echelons of power and threatens everyone she loves, including her missing apprentice. Will Elinor's courage and cunning be enough to save her friends and unravel the web of deceit before it's too late? This final installment requires reading the previous books in the series to fully appreciate the complex storyline and characters. Recommended for readers aged 16 and up.

Ghastly Mistake: A Gaslamp Ghost Mystery (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries)

4.6 / 113 ratings

Review Ghastly Mistake

Oh my gosh, I just finished "Ghastly Mistake," and I'm still buzzing! What a ride! As the final book in the Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries series, it truly delivered a satisfying conclusion, wrapping up all the loose ends in a way that felt both clever and emotionally resonant. I’ve loved this series from the start, and honestly, this last installment might be my favorite.

Right from the opening scene – Elinor waking up next to a dead body and immediately becoming a murder suspect – the tension is cranked up to eleven. And it never lets up. The pacing is fantastic; the plot twists keep coming, one right after another, pulling you deeper into Elinor and Tristan's desperate race against time. Byrd Nash masterfully weaves together the threads from the previous books, creating a complex web of deceit that stretches all the way to the highest levels of government. It's the kind of intricate mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end, forcing you to constantly reassess your suspicions.

I particularly appreciated how well the author handled the character development. Elinor remains a captivating protagonist—witty, courageous, and fiercely loyal. Her relationship with Tristan continues to blossom beautifully, adding a lovely layer of romance without ever overshadowing the central mystery. Seeing their bond deepen throughout the series, and reach new heights in this finale, was truly rewarding. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations. Even the ghosts feel real and nuanced.

The world-building in Sarnesse is another highlight. While it’s clearly inspired by Victorian-era settings, Nash infuses it with just the right amount of fantastical elements to keep things fresh and intriguing. The blend of historical atmosphere with the paranormal abilities of our ghost-talking heroine makes for a uniquely captivating setting. I admit, I’ll miss wandering its cobbled streets and exploring its hidden secrets.

While the book is certainly exciting and suspenseful, it also manages to maintain a lighthearted tone. There’s a healthy dose of humor woven throughout, preventing the story from becoming overly grim despite the serious stakes. This balance perfectly complements the thrilling plot and endearing characters.

The only minor critique I have is that some readers might find the initial chapters a little emotionally intense for Elinor. However, this emotional depth enhances her character and adds another layer to her already engaging personality. It adds to the stakes of the book. The conclusion of this series isn’t just about solving a mystery; it's about Elinor confronting her personal demons and securing her own happiness.

Overall, "Ghastly Mistake" is a fantastic conclusion to a fantastic series. If you enjoy historical fantasy mysteries with strong female leads, charming romances, and a generous sprinkle of ghosts, then this is an absolute must-read. Just be sure to start from the beginning; you won't regret it! Five out of five stars from me!

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