Single Sundays: While this blog may be focused on reviewing book series as a whole, we can’t forget about the good ole’ standalone novel! On Sundays, I will review a novel that is considered to be a standalone novel. Here is this week’s offering:
Synopsis for The House Saphir (from Goodreads):
The ghost of Bluebeard. A handsome count. A con artist in over her head.Mallory Fontaine is a fraud. Though she comes from a long line of witches, the only magic she possesses is the ability to see ghosts. She and her sister eke out a living by selling fraudulent spells to gullible buyers and conducting tours of Count Bastien Saphir’s mansion – who killed three of his wives more than a century ago. But she never expected to meet his great-grandson and heir to the Saphir estate. Armand is handsome, wealthy and when he offers Mallory a large sum of money to rid his home of Bastien’s ghost, she can’t resist.
But when murder returns to the House Saphir, Mallory is almost certain the killer is mortal. If she has any hope of payment, she’ll have to solve the murder and banish the ghost, all while upholding the illusion of witchcraft.
Still that all sounds easy compared to her biggest learning to trust her heart. Especially when her heart’s desire might be the murderer himself.
SERIESous’ Top Picks: Must Read Author
Author: Marissa Meyer
Genre: Young Adult, Supernatural, Fairy Tale Retelling, Mystery
Heat Rating: Warm
Point of View: Third Person, Single
Publication Date: November 4, 2025
Source & Format: Public Library–Audiobook
Why I Picked it Up / My Expectations:
I’m at the point with Marissa Meyer that if she writes it, I’ll read it. I liked that this was a standalone novel and one that focused on the tale of Bluebeard. The suspense of murders, ghosts and magic called to me – it’s been so long since I’ve read something gothic.
The Concept / The World:
I liked the supernatural spin this one had. While I enjoyed the ghosts aspect, I didn’t like the monster aspect as much. It unnecessarily complicated things even if I get why things seem to go hand-in-hand. I just got a little lost in it.
The Plot:
This plot started super strong for me – I loved our introduction to Mallory – but then did wane a bit in the middle as I got lost in all the supernatural elements. But the mystery kept me on my toes as we unraveled the curse.
The Characters:
This was a great blend of characters. I adored Mallory: she’s got a great sense of humour and wit. She was a great lead to follow.
The Romance:
The romance was charming and I was definitely a fan!
My Audiobook Experience:
This was a great listen!
My Rating: 3/5
This was a good read and a nice break from my usual fantasy reads. I think people who enjoy more gothic or supernatural elements to their fairy tale retellings will enjoy this! Not my favourite Marissa Meyer novel but entertaining!
Read if You Like: ghosts, gothic reads
Avoid if You: dislike monsters, want more romance
- The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson (The Shades of London Series #1)
- Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalo (Stalking Jack the Ripper Series #1)
- One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig (The Shepherd King Duology #1)
