Reviews

A Gift of Poison by Bella Ellis

bohemianharrison's review against another edition

dark emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring mysterious sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

cathy_alice's review against another edition

adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Alcoholism, Emotional abuse, and Violence

lmg23's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional hopeful mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

thenovelbook's review against another edition

No one can match Bella Ellis when it comes to (fictionally) bringing the Brontes back to life! As with the previous books in the series, the dialogue and personalities seem just so genuinely possible that it's easy to swallow the small matter of the sisters getting involved as "detectors" in dark and dangerous mysteries. The sense of peril is strong in this one, and it's extremely gothic. Sensitive readers may want to beware. It strays from cozy mystery territory into things that are truly spooky and disturbing. It's also a bit different from traditional mysteries in that supernatural elements are not entirely explained away, but rather embraced. I prefer things to be more rational myself, but I can sort of see why the author made these choices, since the Brontes' own writings are slightly flavored with eerie events.
But if you're fascinated by the Bronte sisters, you will definitely appreciate the level of commitment shown in this series to getting their personalities just right, and bringing in thoughtful portrayals of their family and friends too. In that regard, these books are among the best in the "historical character solves mysteries" category that I've ever read.

Thanks to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for this advance review copy.

mary_juleyre's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

kbkittyb's review against another edition

3.0

I am genuinely going to miss these books. They are a true comfort...

I very rarely follow a series through to the end these days as there are too many rolling around at the minute to keep up with - but this one has had me happily hooked.

Although not my favourite in the series, this one still has the same indescribable charm as the others. In this one, Branwell is 'indisposed' so we have Ellen Nussey instead. She is an excellent friend, but I did miss the love for his sisters that Branwell portrayed in the earlier books. Oh Branwell! *sigh*

The plot itself is interesting, however, I didn't thoroughly enjoy the 'mesmerism' explanation; it felt a bit...easy. But, as always, it is clearly very well researched which really adds to the feel of the book. The literary easter-eggs for Bronte lovers are well thought out and very fun to come across.

The atmosphere and settings are exquisite! As a country-loving girl who has no choice but to live in the city, this book is like a breath of fresh air. I feel at home in the world created.

Are there a few slight gaps/inaccuracies? Yes. However, none hampered the enjoyment this series gave me. The characters are just too enchanting for that! Tabby will always have my heart.

I will greatly miss this series, but look forward to Bella Ellis's next enterprise. Would strongly recommend!

shellydennison's review against another edition

adventurous emotional funny inspiring lighthearted mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Thoroughly enjoyable mystery with nice nods to Brontë and local history, as well as good evocations of places in Yorkshire.

patchworkbunny's review

4.0

I've really enjoyed this series following the Brontës' fictional exploits as lady detectors. This is the final book, with the author choosing to end before their story becomes mired in tragedy. It's based on the real Haworth poisoner's trial, albeit some dates and names changed.

magicofthepages's review against another edition

adventurous mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

deelambe12's review

adventurous emotional funny relaxing medium-paced

4.0