THE HAUNTING OF WILLIAM GRAY is a story that has many
classic featured and is well-constructed much like the historic mansion where
much of the action occurs. It has hints
of ‘The Ghost and Mrs Muir’ and ‘Rebecca’ and is written with a palpable sense
of place such that you can almost smell the sea air. The story centers on a peculiar love triangle
of sorts between an single mother and graduate student, a pompous wealthy heir
with a ton of emotional baggage, and a ghost that occasionally possesses him—with
a history-mystery that needs to be untangled to set everything to rights.
For the three quarters of the story I would suggest that
pace is a little sedate and the style more like romance books from a few
decades ago than a modern example. Just as I was starting to skim a little the
plot took a very dark and dramatic turn, however there was also a plot element that
stuck out to at this point as wildly implausible. To avoid spoilers I can’t say much more than
that, but for those of you who might otherwise lose interest a plot twist is
coming!
I think a slightly stronger editorial hand could have made
this a 5/5 book where the plot advanced at a more interest pace without
sacrificing believability. The theme of a size 10-12 woman being wildly
insecure about her weight could also be toned down a little IMHO. However there is no doubt that this maritime
romance is tightly plotted overall and seamlessly blends a supernatural mystery
and obstacle strewn love story to arrive at a very satisfying
happily-ever-after.
Review copy courtesy of Netgalley, 7/10, #HeadHopping
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