THE HAUNTING OF ALCOTT MANOR is the first book in the Alcott Manor contemporary gothic romance series by Alyssa Richards. At the opening of this story, Gemma Stewart is going through a time of transition in her life. After recently unloading an unfaithful husband, her career is soaring. Just when things are looking up for Gemma, her father is desperate for her specialized skills and recruits her on a home restoration job. The house in question is of the haunted variety and therefore makes Gemma uneasy about agreeing to help. Whether she's headed toward her doom or destiny, Gemma gets sucked into the spookiness and danger that surrounds Alcott Manor.

I love a good haunted house story and THE HAUNTING OF ALCOTT MANOR certainly qualifies. As a bonus, Alyssa Richards throws in a centuries-old mystery and a sublime romance to balance out all the supernatural shenanigans. As much as Alcott Manor fills Gemma with anxiety and anticipation, the delectable Henry Alcott bewitches her. Attraction and annoyance color Gemma's introduction to Henry. As the two work together and temporarily live together, restoring Alcott Manor, the chemistry between Gemma and Henry is palpable and creates a delicious erotic tension. Because Henry is technically her client, Gemma tries to resist her feelings of lust for Henry, but the more she gets to know him and the more she likes him. They can't keep their hands off each other. I'm glad that Alyssa Richards tells part of this story from Henry's perspective. As the story progresses, the suspense and sense of urgency intensify as the spectral activity increases and the deadline for the restoration approaches.

THE HAUNTING OF ALCOTT MANOR is a fascinating tale of tragedy, ghosts, and soulmates. Mystery fans will enjoy this heroine's efforts to track down clues -- both tangible and ghostly -- while trying to find the truth about a woman's death. Romance fans will adore this match-up of a strong heroine and an enigmatic yet endearingly charming and earnest hero. I look forward to reading the next book in this tantalizing Alcott Manor series.