When writer Merritt Fernsby inherits a remote estate in 1846 Rhode Island, he quickly discovers the house has other plans—literally trapping him inside its enchanted walls and refusing to let him leave. Enter Hulda Larkin, a no-nonsense expert from the Boston Institute for the Keeping of Enchanted Rooms, who arrives to help tame the temperamental manor and unlock its secrets. As Merritt and Hulda work together to understand Whimbrel House's mysterious past, their partnership ignites into something far more personal, but they soon realize the real danger might not be coming from within the house at all. This atmospheric romance blends Gothic mystery, magical intrigue, and the slow-burn connection between two people who are absolutely perfect for each other.

Reading soundtrack

Listen while you read

Spotify

hauntingyearningmysteriousintimateenchanted

A haunting blend of gothic romance and historical mystery—think orchestral indie, ethereal folk, and slow-burn tension. Moody, atmospheric, with whispers of magic and growing desire. Artists like Hozier, Florence + The Machine, and Bon Iver capture this enchanted, yearning energy.

Build the vibe

No strong reader playlist surfaced yet, but this soundtrack prompt is tuned to the book's mood.

Paste the copied prompt into Spotify's AI Playlist flow. It is Premium/mobile gated, so Hotlist keeps this one-tap handoff until direct playlist creation is connected.