The Girl with the Golden Eyes

by Samantha Hastings

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Hana’s life is forever changed when the Comtesse de Champagne, a wealthy and eccentric Englishwoman, sees a painting of her. The comtesse purchases Hana from her father, and Hana’s existence transforms from one of poverty to one of privilege.

For years Hana enjoys the comforts of her new position, but she hates how controlling and neurotic the comtesse is. When the comtesse is accused of murdering Sir Reginald Shipley over a painting, Hana must do all in her power to prove the comtesse’s innocence or she’ll lose everything.

She reluctantly works with Aaron Shipley, Sir Reginald’s grandson, to track down the true murderer, only to discover shocking secrets that will shake everything Hana and Aaron thought they knew about themselves and their families. And falling in love could prove deadly.

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Book Details

Genre

Historical Romance

Subgenre

General Historical, Small Town, Victorian (1830–1900)

Audience

Upper YA

Bell Peppers

🫑🫑

Profanity

2 Mild

Violence

3 Moderate

Drugs, Alcohol, Tobacco

2 Mild

Publication Date

October 11, 2021

Language Versions

English

Fiction Form

Novel

Sensitive Themes

Grief or loss of a loved one, Gun violence / shootings, Murder or attempted murder

Representation

Adoption or foster-care representation

Editorial Reviews

“This was an intriguing murder mystery, all the more fascinating because it's inspired by some real figures from history. Definitely recommend for those wanting a cozy mystery grounded in the Victorian era—with a dash of romance, as well.”

—Sam Taylor, author of We Are the Fire

"I can't add anything new, but echo what others have said- intriguing mystery, clean and delightful romance! I enjoyed the history weaved throughout. And the twists and turns had me guessing at who the murderer could be. Charming characters- I also enjoyed that there was substance to their relationship. Many elements made this a great read for me!"

-Danaj, Amazon.com

"I was pleased to find this one had me guessing until the end. A well thought out mystery with a sweet love story."

-Kindle Customer, Amazon.com

An engaging murder mystery

This is a historical murder mystery and not what I typically read. The plot is different and the writing engaging. The romance is a little underdeveloped, but there’s a lot more to the plot than the romance, so it makes sense.There are a couple things I found ‘off’ about the book that made me to drop it to 4-stars. There are many many references to superstitions, especially concerning the eccentric Comtesse. It’s portrayed in a negative and even mocking light, but it’s still… weird. There are also many mentions of mistresses, dalliances with maids, and prostitution. Again, it’s not portrayed in a positive light, and certainly with no detail, but it’s included with a frequency and casualness that seemed a bit excessive to me. It’s a good book, though, and entertaining.I listened to the audiobook, which happens to be narrated by a virtual voice. The intonations are often off, especially in the dialogue, but it’s not terrible.Content:There is no foul language. The romance is limited to heated but only mildly descriptive kisses. There are mentions of mistresses, dalliances with maids, and prostitution. There is some violence (it IS a murder mystery). There is no mention of faith or God.Trigger warnings - murder, death of a family member, parents selling their children (from poverty into wealth, but still)

Good who dunnit

I was pleased to find this one had me guessing until the end. A well thought out mystery with a sweet love story.

Unique story that captivated my heart!

Loved Girl with the Golden Eyes! What a choice for a father to have to make! I'm still reeling that this kind of thing happened. Cute romance that's clean for those who worry about such things. Don't miss this cute story!

Quick paced mystery with a twist

This book really hit the sweet spot for me. Light enough, but with some tragically serious content that was similar to actual historical events. The characters were engaging and the story had me incorrectly predicting the ending.

Girl with golden eyes

A really fun story with some art sprinkled throughout, making the story feel fresh and interesting. Regency with a murder mystery theme is always a good idea. A great book. Recommend!!