Book Review: 1692 Cauldron Road (Grimbrooke Book 1)
I received a review copy of this book in order to review on my site and my BookTok account. I am so grateful because I was very excited to read this one. And it did not disappoint!
“For it is plain as anyone can see, We’re simply meant to be. – Jack and Sally”
I loved seeing this quote in the dedication at the start of the book. I’m a big fan of movies with Burton and Elfman and The Nightmare Before Christmas is top of my list. I even have a Jack and Sally tattoo with this very quote on it. This gave me a good idea that Manos was about to deliver a story I was going to love. And she absolutely did!
If you enjoy thrillers that combine bravery, magic, and a search for peace, AdriAnn Manos’ “1692 Cauldron Road” is a must-read! This captivating book entices you into a world full of magic and adventure, making it difficult to put down from the first page.
The narrative centers on Belladonna Elsa Williams and her younger sister Adelaide, who, following an automobile accident, find themselves unexpectedly transferred to the eerie village of Grimbrooke. They soon discover they have left behind the world they know behind when they awaken on a stone altar surrounded by archaic symbols. Supernatural creatures such as werewolves, vampires, and witches abound in this unsettling location, each contributing their own distinct essence to the developing story.
Will the sisters be able to get back to the life and the world they knew before?
Belladonna goes on a physical and psychological adventure as she learns about her new identity and abilities, all the while attempting to keep her sister safe and figure out how to return to their former existence. When Tobias, the mayor of the town, and Belladonna discover a dark scheme by Tobias’s parents, Andrei and Iris, to reveal Grimbrooke’s magical secrets to the mortal world on All Hallows Eve, the stakes are upped.
Manos masterfully creates a rich narrative, weaving together themes of identity, family, and destiny with the spooky yet enchanting atmosphere of Grimbrooke. The characters are diverse and compelling, from the wise vampire Miss Clara to the loyal ghost Gertrude, and the strong werewolves Alessandro and Nicco. Each character contributes to the larger theme of unity, courage, and the pursuit of peace. I love the worldbuilding and the characters were diverse, fun, and relatable.
“1692 Cauldron Road” features an amazing world-building, complete with detailed descriptions of Grimbrooke’s Victorian architecture, mystical symbols, and otherworldly occupants. You will be gripped by the fast-paced plot until the very last page since it is full of surprising turns. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, with hope interspersed with times of sadness.
Fans of adventure, horror, and fantasy will love this novel. These genres work together to create a singular, exciting experience that keeps you wondering right up until the very end. I couldn’t get away from Belladonna’s world and couldn’t wait to turn the pages to find out what would happen next. It’s simple to get engrossed in the characters’ hardships and victories because of the compelling writing and realistic characters.
Will Belladonna and Tobias be able to avert the impending catastrophe and save their town and loved ones in a world where evil forces loom?
“1692 Cauldron Road” was fantastic, and I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series. I heartily suggest AdriAnn Manos’s gripping thriller to everyone who appreciates a good mystery with a spooky edge. Get your copy now and get lost in this captivating world.
5 stars from me!