THE SECRETS OF THORNDALE MANOR
The Audacious Sisterhood of Smoke & Fire Series: Book 2
A WOMEN SLEUTHS SELECTION by Bookshop.org
She risks everything for the truth.
He guards secrets that could tear them apart.
When Athena Taylor opens the Darkmoor Bridge School for Girls at the grand and storied Thorndale Manor, she hopes for a new beginning. But the estate's dark past quickly resurfaces when a maid is found dead under suspicious circumstances--and whispers stir of a murder committed nine years earlier, a crime for which Ian Vernon's sister was convicted.
Athena believes the two cases are connected. Ian Vernon, Thorndale's brooding former heir, insists she's wrong--and warns her to leave the past buried. But Athena is as fearless as she is determined, and her investigation brings her into close quarters with the man who should be her adversary ... yet soon proves to be something much more.
As secrets unravel and a killer grows desperate, Athena finds herself in terrifying danger, caught between the pursuit of truth and justice and a powerful attraction that threatens to derail everything.
A richly atmospheric mystery layered with romance, betrayal, and the dark undercurrents of a house built on secrets.
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PRAISE
“Loved it! Syrie James has a remarkable talent for immersive Gothic mystery! With a compelling story and surprising twist, The Secrets of Thorndale Manor had me glued to the pages well past my bedtime. I couldn't put it down!” — Dianne Freeman, USA Today bestselling author of the Countess of Harleigh Mysteries
“The audacious sisters Athena and Selena are struggling to lead their school for girls at Thorndale Manor—a country house with a dark past and the threat of violence hovering over its roof. When the enigmatic former owner brings both jeopardy and romance into their lives, they must delve into the school’s past to ward off ruin. Fans of Mimi Matthews will not want to miss this second installment in a promising series.” — Stephanie Barron, bestselling author of the Being a Jane Austen Mystery series
"A twisty Victorian murder mystery with slow burn romance! Miss Athena Taylor is an intelligent and hardworking headmistress of a girl's school. She's the perfect heroine turned amateur detective. Athena solves not one, but two murders and falls in love at the same time. This series is ideal for fans of Mary Winters' Lady of Letters and Mimi Matthews' The Crinoline Academy." — Samantha Larsen, author of the Lady Librarian Mysteries
“The Secrets of Thorndale Manor is an immersive gothic suspense in the vein of Victoria Holt and the great Charlotte Bronte. Tasked with solving a twisty mystery, Athena Taylor is a whip-smart, principled heroine determined to overcome the strictures of the day in her roles as talented teacher and amateur sleuth. The plot crackles with tension and misdirection, and the lovely romantic elements add depth to the story. Syrie James has crafted another vivid, atmospheric, and thoroughly entertaining historical mystery. Highly recommended!” — Vanessa Kelly, USA Today bestselling author of The Emma Knightley Mysteries
"A twisty mystery with delicious Gothic vibes! The latest novel by Syrie James has all my favorite elements--including old houses with plenty of secrets, multiple mysteries to solve, and wonderfully layered heroes. Fully immersive and a true delight--a tale you won't want to miss!" — Joanna Davidson Politano, award winning author of The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House and other Gothic mysteries
“Clever and delightfully complex, The Secrets of Thorndale Manor is a dynamic whodunit that will keep you guessing until the end. Grab some tea and settle down. You’ll be sleuthing alongside a determined heroine, falling in love with a secretive but handsome hero, and wringing your hands over which characters you can truly trust.” — Hannah Linder, award-winning author of The Girl from the Hidden Forest
"Beautifully written and brimming with charm and wit, The Secrets of Thorndale Manor is the perfect cozy Gothic mystery. James's loveable, plucky heroine and tortured hero are enchanting, and readers will devour every twist, turn, and surprise both pleasant and shiver-inducing." — J. Ann Thomas, author of The Spirit Collection of Thorne Hall
“A captivating Victorian Gothic mystery, rich in Brontë-inspired atmosphere, family secrets, and clever twists. Athena Taylor, a sharp, feminist headmistress, makes a compelling heroine as she unravels a double murder mystery tied to her school and home. I adored the themes of independence, justice, love, and the enemies-to-lovers romance. Syrie James blends emotion, suspense, and social commentary beautifully. An atmospheric novel—I read it in nearly one sitting.” — Christina Boyd, The Quill Ink
“I absolutely adored The Secrets of Thorndale Manor. From the first line to the last I was captivated by this Victorian gothic mystery romance that held me spellbound with its family secrets, many red herrings and Agatha Christie twists and turns! An exciting atmospheric page-turner as I followed Athena’s every step toward trying to solve two murders that haunt her and are connected to Thorndale Manor. I totally recommend this brilliant historical mystery romance! 5 Breathtaking Stars! — Author Cindy L. Spear
“Book 2 in The Audacious Sisterhood of Smoke & Fire by Syrie James captured my imagination so completely with its authentic Victorian setting, intriguing mystery, and compelling romance that I nearly missed the gorgeous sunny day outside. It can be read solo, but I loved it so much that I started Book 1, The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall, right after and am loving it too. Brava, Ms. James! 5 stars!” — Char Jones, Literary Redhead
“Once again, Syrie James has delivered a suspenseful and compelling historical mystery. This new series is such a delight. I adore the characters, the pacing is just right, and the mystery is super satisfying. I’m already eager for the next installment!" — Beth Cohen, Bookish Beth
The Audacious Sisterhood of Smoke & Fire Series
Book 1 - The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall
Book 2 - The Secrets of Thorndale Manor
Book 3 - Danger at Darkmoor Park (Due out 10/28/25)
READ AN EXCERPT from The Secrets of Thorndale Manor
Published by: Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.Release Date: June 28, 2025
Pages: 375
ISBN13: 979-8288628207
ASIN: B0DWHMYCVY