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The Architect of Song is the first installment in author A.G. Howard's Haunted Hearts Legacy series, a four book gothic saga, which according to the summary follows the "generations of one family as - haunted by both literal and figurative ghosts - they search for self-acceptance, love, and happiness." It has been so long since I have read a ghost story, and even longer since I have read a historical ghost story. I adored The Architect of Song. It is such an atmospheric read. It is on the slow side, but when you are in the mood for a very well written, meandering, but romantic book, The Architect of Song is a great one for you to check out.

Because of the slow, descriptive pacing throughout, coupled with the fact that The Architect of Song is 425 pages, it took me some time to read. Actually, it took me a few days, which is very odd for me. But I rather enjoyed the denseness of this story. It allowed me to take my time and savor the characters. I love Juliet. As soon as she described how she tricks the world into thinking she is not deaf, she fascinated me. Then there is the ghost (AKA Hawk). He is a delight as well. I liked him so much that I was disappointed when the Viscount finally made his appearance as a love interest as well in the story. Juliet is a wonderful 1880's female protagonist. She is all at once true to the time, but still pushes boundaries. It was a very complex persona that A.G. Howard developed and I thought it was perfect!

The Architect of Song is a perfect mix of mystery, twists and turns and romance. It is unlike other new adult novels I have read in the past, because the romance in this one does not take over everything else this book has to offer. Instead, the romance (and yes, there is a love triangle- you are forewarned.) blends in with the rest of the story, which is actually what I prefer with atmospheric reads such as The Architect of Song. A.G. Howard really did a great job with this one. I love a new adult time period piece.

Bottom line: Fans of A.G. Howard need to read The Architect of Song. The book ends at a good place, so you aren't left hanging until book 2, but I am certainly very interested in continuing the Haunted Hearts Legacy series. The Architect of Song is a haunting and mystery time period historical that is beautifully done. It is a slow paced and dense read, but one that is well worth the time and effort. The Architect of Song is a book meant to be savored.

This review was originally posted on Book Briefs