Review of Keeper of Enchanted Rooms (Whimbrel House, #1) by Charity Tahmaseb
From the moment I heard about Keeper of Enchanted Rooms, I felt a magnetic pull. The balance of magic, mystery, and a quirky historical setting in 1846 Rhode Island had me intrigued. The idea of a house with a personality—where enchantment and occupant clash—was just too delightful to resist. Charity Tahmaseb has crafted a narrative that combines whimsy with a darker undertone, and as I dove in, I found myself wrapped in a world that was both enchanting and perplexing.
The story unfolds with Merritt Fernsby, a thirty-something writer who receives unexpected news: he’s inherited Whimbrel House from an estranged family member. However, the joy of this newfound legacy quickly dims as the house reveals its wilder side—it doesn’t take long for Merritt to realize he’s trapped inside. Enter Hulda Larkin, a member of the Boston Institute for the Keeping of Enchanted Rooms (BIKER). As a tamer of mystical houses, she’s his only hope. The dynamic between Merritt and Hulda is not just about them wrestling with the enchantments of the house; it’s also about their burgeoning attraction amidst their individual vulnerabilities.
What I found particularly refreshing is the age of the main characters; Merritt and Hulda aren’t your typical youthful protagonists. They carry history, flaws, and complex pasts that add depth to their interactions. While the beginning felt a bit sluggish—both characters seemed almost like cardboard cutouts—gradually, they come alive, revealing their intricacies. By the time I was about 35-40% in, I was rooting for their growth and connection. Yet, I wish this character exploration had happened a little earlier in the story, as it made the beginning feel unnecessarily drawn out.
Tahmaseb’s writing shines with descriptive prose, especially in depicting the Whimbrel House itself. The blueprint and definitions of magical powers at the start serve as helpful references, although some aspects of their magical world felt underdeveloped as the story progressed. The pacing felt uneven at times, particularly in the middle, where the plot seemed to circle back on itself, causing the narrative to drag.
As for the villain, while there was potential for a truly menacing antagonist, I felt a bit let down by his arc. The climax, while promising, didn’t pack the punch I was hoping for. However, I appreciated the sweet, albeit somewhat lovey-dovey, ending that left me feeling lighthearted.
One of my favorite moments was the quirky interactions with the house—its antics made me chuckle and added a layer of charm that kept the mood buoyant. The witty dialogue and humorous moments broke up the tension nicely. Plus, Owein, the house’s adorable presence, is a welcome highlight!
Ultimately, Keeper of Enchanted Rooms offers a cozy escape into a world where magic is not only a backdrop but a vital character in itself. If you’re a fan of whimsical tales that balance lightheartedness with moments of introspection, this book could be a delightful addition to your reading list. It’s a perfect read for those who enjoy unique settings, romantic undertones, and a touch of the fantastical, even if it has its rough edges.
I’m eager to dive into the next installment, hoping to see more attention given to character development. Thank you, NetGalley and 47North, for the eARC. This review reflects my honest opinion about the book.
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