A Poisoning At Castle Gloaming - Blog Tour
After a two-day train journey, peripatetic dressmaker Jemima Flowerday makes the final approach to her new job on foot, following the canal to Castle Gloaming, which stands in the rugged North Wales countryside overlooking the foaming River Dee.
Jemima has come to clothe Mrs Cornelia van Doorn, a wealthy South African widow who has leased the castle from its impoverished aristocratic owner, intending to launch herself and her young stepdaughter, Honor, into London society. But on her arrival she's told she's actually been summoned to investigate the disappearance of the girl. Even in a place still haunted by mystery and magic, the seventeen-year-old can't have melted into thin air…
The blurb immediately captured my attention and drew me into the story before I had even turned the first page. It promised intrigue, charm, and a touch of mystery—all of which the book delivered. Although this is the second book in the series, it reads comfortably as a standalone. That said, Jemima is such a distinctive and engaging character that I imagine reading the first instalment would offer even more insight into her background, her quirks, and the mannerisms that make her feel so unique and memorable.
The premise itself is wonderfully entertaining. Jemima arrives expecting to carry out her usual work—designing and creating new dresses for an affluent household—only to find herself plunged headfirst into an unexpected mystery. What should have been a straightforward job in a wealthy family’s home quickly transforms into a blend of fashion, family secrets, and amateur sleuthing. Watching Jemima switch from seamstress to detective adds a lively and humorous twist to the story, and it’s a premise that kept me intrigued throughout.
The historical setting is another strong element. The era in which the story takes place complements the plot beautifully, adding richness and atmosphere without feeling heavy or overdone. I genuinely enjoyed immersing myself in the time period, picking up details about daily life, social expectations, and family dynamics that shaped the characters’ actions. The cast itself is wide-ranging, varied, and colourful, each character contributing something different to the narrative. Their interactions kept the pages turning as I eagerly tried to piece together what had truly happened to Hope.
The inclusion of multiple subplots was one of the highlights for me. Rather than distracting from the main storyline, they added depth and kept my interest high. Each smaller thread offered another piece of the puzzle, helping to build tension and enrich the overall mystery. By the time everything began to come together, it felt satisfying and well-earned.
Overall, this was a genuinely fun and engaging read—light enough to enjoy easily, but layered enough to keep me invested from start to finish. I would happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical mysteries, strong female leads, or stories with a playful blend of whimsy and intrigue.
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