5.0 (11 ratings)

Beauty and the Deceased: A Gothic Romance (The Ghostly Grandeur Series Book 1)

Name: Beauty and the Deceased: A Gothic Romance (The Ghostly Grandeur Series Book 1)
Rating: 5 (11 reviews)
Author: Summer Satchwell
ISBN: B0GHH4WXQN

by Summer Satchwell

ghosts

About this book

The Kingsley estate is a predatory monolith that consumes the desperate and the greedy. When Sophina Devereaux signs up for the infamous trials, she expects to face lethal challenges rooted in the seven deadly sins. What she finds instead is a sentient mansion that demands blood as currency. Phina is not just another sacrifice; she is a woman with a will of iron, determined to survive a house that feeds on the darkest corners of the human soul.

At the heart of the haunting stands James Kingsley, a man bound to the estate by an ancient, suffocating curse. As the guardian of these deadly trials, he has remained detached for centuries, watching contestants perish with cold indifference. That is, until Phina arrives and refuses to play by the house’s rules. Her defiance sparks a dangerous, slow-burn obsession that threatens to unravel the very foundation of the estate.

This gothic romance is a masterclass in atmosphere, blending visceral horror with an intense, reincarnated connection that transcends time. It is a dark, twisted retelling of a classic fairy tale where love acts as a catalyst for destruction. For readers seeking a paranormal romance that prioritizes tension, haunting architecture, and high-stakes devotion, this story is a chillingly beautiful must-read.

Publication Date: May 25, 2026
ASIN: B0GHH4WXQN

Reader Reviews

Great Book, Great New Author

May 3, 2026

It’s hard to believe that this is a first novel. The author has a wonderful way with words that keeps the story flowing! I loved the characters, especially Sophia! My first read in this genre and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Five stars for sure! ) One person found this helpful

Definitely adult content, but not for the romance

April 21, 2026

This was a fun twist on the Beauty and the Beast story! The romance was mild. The horror aspects got pretty intense in some chapters but there was a good rhythm between adrenaline rushes and emotional recovery time. This will be my book club read for Halloween/October! ) One person found this helpful

What kills you makes you stronger

May 3, 2026

I really enjoyed the character development and atmosphere created by this author )

Loved every page.

April 7, 2026

This book story was delightful! I loved it and I can’t wait for the rest of the series. I had a hard time getting anything done because I kept going back to my kindle for a few more pages. The story is fun. The writing is beautiful the characters are engaging and the plot is interesting. You are rooting for Phina from the beginning. And Yes please on James. You won’t be sorry. ) 2 people found this helpful

Best Gothic Romance Book of All Time!

April 7, 2026

This is the first Gothic Romance book that I have ever read that was not too gory or explicit. The writing is great and beautiful; the author is also great. ) 2 people found this helpful