ebookreview | [ 670 ]

The Prince of Mourning by Jenn Bennett

Genre:
Gothic, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Netgalley, Romantasy, Young Adult

Publication Date:
October 28, 2025

Page Numbers:
464

Read/Finished Date:
August 1st, 2025 - August 2nd, 2025

Rating:
3.5/5

Premise:

Belladonna by Adalyn Grace meets A Study in Drowning in this sizzling gothic romantasy that follows the forbidden romance between a young nurse and a mysterious young man imprisoned by a dangerous occultist.

After receiving a strange summons, eighteen-year-old nursing student Molly O’Rinn finds herself the private live-in nurse for a wealthy young man in his haunting Hudson Valley mansion. But after arriving at his secluded estate, Molly discovers that her handsome employer is not what he seems, and most surprising of all is what rests deep inside the mansion’s walls.

Perhaps not what, but who…

A young man about Molly’s age—at least in appearance—is a prisoner of the estate, locked behind magical barriers. Nin is royalty, the son of a legend. He is not human, not of this world…and not like anyone Molly has ever met.

Molly should stay away from him. But Nin is a terrifying yet strangely attractive being, and soon both Molly and Nin find themselves drawn to each other, sparked by a connection neither of them can deny. But as the two become entangled in a forbidden affair, outside forces start to press in.

Because Nin’s legendary father is looking for his son, and he’s not the only one.

To keep Molly safe, Nin must find a way back to his realm or suffer the consequences. Even if it means choosing his princely duty over love.

Review:

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for this ARC.

I love gothic horror romance. I love the haunting atmosphere, the dark, creepy manor filled with secrets, and the brooding and eccentric owner. This captivating atmosphere draws readers into the story and keeps them glued to the page until nearly the end. However, ever since I started reading gothic romantic horror, the female lead always tends to be nosy, refuses to listen to warnings, and ends up getting herself into trouble. Molly isn't any different from the typical gothic romantic heroine. She has come to the manor to help the manor's owner, who is suffering from tuberculosis. He needs a nurse to care for him, and Molly reluctantly takes up the role. She's been told to stay away from places such as the underground graveyard, but like all nosy gothic horror heroines, she does the complete opposite, and this is where she meets Nin.

I'm really on the fence about Molly because her character annoyed me. I loved the story because it was unique and interesting, especially Nin himself, but Molly just felt the same typical blueprint of the gothic romance female.