Hi there! Today I’m sharing my review for Jade Astor’s creepily gothic M/M mystery/romance, THE HOUSE ON THE CLIFF. I enjoyed the misdirection, and characters, of this well-paced story.

About the book:
A small-engine repair degree can only get you so far in a seaside tourist town—just ask Noah Camden. But his luck takes a turn when he stops to help a man change a tire. Obviously wealthy, the man offers Noah a job at the imposing manor, Cliff House. Noah is to care for the man’s vehicles and chauffeur the man’s son, Tristan Peterson, for the summer. Tristan is afraid to drive because of a mysterious accident–and no one will tell Noah the details.

Though the young men come from vastly different social backgrounds, Tristan and Noah slowly bond. One day Tristan confesses the truth: his first love, Martin Praxley, an estate handyman, was killed in the accident. Tristan believes Martin’s ghost is haunting him, bent on revenge. Noah vows to figure out what really happened, how it’s possible Martin is back from the dead to torment Tristan, and how they can find peace and happiness together with the secrets of Cliff House looming over them.

Having been a mystery fan since my childhood, I truly appreciated the gothic quality of the story–parts of it reminded me strongly of (a gay) JANE EYRE or REBECCA, with a whole lot more steamy bits! While I didn’t think this would become a supernatural romance, there was clearly a well-crafted attempt to create doubt. The resolution is good, with an HEA for pretty much everyone…well, okay, maybe not one creepy guy. Head on over to Joyfully Jay to catch my full review.

Thanks for popping in, and keep reading my friends!