(Spirited Encounters Book 1)
By Penny Hampson
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
From the very first page of The Unquiet Spirit (Spirited Encounters Book 1) by Penny Hampson, I was completely absorbed. The story unfolds with a quiet confidence, drawing the reader into an atmosphere that is both haunting and beautifully intimate. There is a gentle, almost whispered quality to the writing that allows the tension to build naturally, and I found myself fully immersed before I even realised it.
What I particularly loved was how seamlessly the paranormal, emotional, and romantic threads are woven together. The ghostly elements are intriguing and at times unsettling, yet they never overshadow the deeply human story at the heart of the novel. The romance, in particular, is handled with great sensitivity and restraint. Rather than feeling rushed or forced, it develops slowly and naturally, grounded in shared experiences, trust, and emotional vulnerability. I found it genuinely touching and completely believable.
I connected strongly with the protagonist, whose journey is filled with uncertainty, courage, and emotional growth. Their inner conflicts and evolving relationships felt authentic, and I appreciated how the romantic connection added warmth and hope without diminishing the darker, more mysterious aspects of the story. The supporting characters are equally well drawn, each contributing meaningfully to the narrative and adding depth to both the emotional and romantic landscape.
The pacing is excellent — steady and deliberate, allowing the tension, relationships, and atmosphere to develop in tandem. There were moments that sent a shiver down my spine, balanced perfectly by quieter scenes that carried real emotional weight. Penny Hampson explores themes of loss, healing, love, and connection with compassion and insight, giving the novel a richness that lingers long after the final page.
By the time I finished The Unquiet Spirit, I felt both emotionally satisfied and eager to continue the journey. This is a beautifully written novel that offers far more than a standard paranormal tale. With its compelling characters, slow-burn romance, and haunting sense of mystery, it more than earns its five stars. I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys paranormal fiction with emotional depth, a strong romantic thread, and an atmospheric setting. I am very much looking forward to the rest of the Spirited Encounters series.
Penny Hampson
Penny Hampson writes mysteries, and because she has a passion for history, you’ll find her stories also reflect that. A Gentleman’s Promise, a traditional Regency romance, was Penny’s debut novel and the first of her Gentlemen Series. There are now four novels in the series, with the latest, An Adventurer’s Contract, released in November 2024. Penny also enjoys writing contemporary mysteries with a hint of the paranormal, because where do ghosts come from but the past? The Unquiet Spirit, a spooky mystery/romance set in Cornwall, is the first in the Spirited Encounters Series. Look out for A Plethora of Phantoms coming soon.
Penny lives with her family in Oxfordshire, and when she is not writing, she enjoys reading, walking, swimming, and the odd gin and tonic (not all at the same time).
If you’ve enjoyed any of Penny’s books please leave a review on Amazon, Bookbub, or Goodreads, and let other readers know!
I couldn't agree with you more! I have just read this book as well! LOL!
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