Mysteries of Thorn Manor (Sorcery of Thorns, #1.5)

Mysteries of Thorn Manor is the perfect companion novella to Sorcery of Thorns. I love the chemistry between Elizabeth and Nathaniel. In this book, they are trapped by the magical wards of Thorn Manor with nothing better to do but to figure out why the magic is misbehaving and define their relationship. We get all the great parts established in Sorcery of Thorns and expand on the enigma of Silas, the quirky magical world, and the budding love our characters have for each other. The concept that whole rooms could be magicked away and that you could find secret nooks and crannies from bygone eras was delightful.
As a booklover the idea of books with their own external personalities was fascinating. To think a book could become lonely and refuse to open or be disruptive because you don’t acknowledge it often enough is wonderful.
Overall, the book is charming and silly in the best way. I particularly enjoyed when Great Aunt Clothilde’s wardrobe attacked them and they are left fending off old-fashioned bloomers and other unmentionables. I would not mind stepping into this magical world meeting our characters and helping them keep the magical library in order.

MYSTERIES OF THORN MANOR is a delightful YA fantasy novella that serves as an extended epilogue for SORCERY OF THORNS. Thorn Manor is to host the Midwinter Ball, but the manor itself is acting up. They will need to investigate the issues with the manor while getting ready to host the ball. Nathaniel and Elisabeth are trying to get closer, but the manor seems to thwart them at every turn. Along with Silas and Mercy, they will find plenty of secrets hidden in the manor and explore its magic and what it needs of them.

This was a really delightful extension of the story. While it does help to have read the original book, the novella does a great job of recapping key facts, so for those who read the first book a while ago, they won't miss a step getting back into it. The characters come to life in their ways with their personalities shining through the text and a romantic overtone as the house seems to want some commitment from Nathaniel and Elisabeth before they are to kiss. Their relationship brings all the swoon to the story, and there was delightful romance between them within this extension. Silas also brings his own heart-wrenching scenes to the story as he connects with the other residents further.

A light-hearted and sweet novella, MYSTERIES OF THORN MANOR is a lovely extension to SORCERY OF THORNS that brings swoon, humor, and a delightful ending.