The Violet Hour

By: Brynn Chapman

Narrated by: Janine Haynes

Secrets.

Allegra Teagarden, a musical prodigy, flees her father's dominance and abuse while touring in pre-civil war Charleston, South Carolina. Plagued by depression over her mother's suicide during their previous visit, she escapes in an effort to piece together the details behind her mother's mysterious demise.

Secrets.

Down to her final coin, Allegra happens on Charleston's Fancy, the first southern amusement park, which is searching for musicians for its orchestra. At first, the park seems her salvation; but she quickly realizes she has traded the dominance of her father, for the even more terrifying madness of the owner, Silas.

And more secrets.

Allegra meets the dashing Brighton LeFroy, Fancys engineer and pyrotechnics master. His shabby clothing cannot conceal the brilliant mind beneath. The musicians whisper he is a witch, is obsessed with storms, and is rumored...to fly. And despite the danger, despite her own misgivings, Allegra is inexplicable drawn to him.

She ventures to his reclusive home on Fire Isle during a thunderstorm and together they seek to unravel an ancient mystery. And bring an ancient evil to justice.

©2016 Ronna Hochbein (P)2016 Ronna Hochbein

Music, mystery & witchcraft

Not my typical beach read! I really enjoyed the story and the setting - the historical backdrop. Forging allegiances, pulling herself up out of near poverty, after being born into money and finding out that money can't buy happiness. The details of the city of Charleston were the perfect setting for this story. Allegra also learns that there's a big difference between being alone and being lonely. The narrator has a very soothing, melodic voice which is good and bad, occasionally I found my mind wandering if I wasn't paying close enough attention. Looking forward to listening to Brynn Chapman's Here Walk the Dead.

Interesting

Windows doors what’s happening? I like this story. Runaways, secrets, mystery and a little bit of love.

There is no course language, no sex, and violence is kept to the basics. Would be suitable for young teams.

I enjoyed how the story is written and how the characters are brought to life by the authors.

Narrated Janie Haynes gives each character their own unique voice. I enjoyed listening to her smooth voice.

I suggest that you listen to Janine voices before getting the audio book. I listen to the audiobook on 1.4 speed.

Interesting take on fantasy/science

Set in the past when a father can marry off their daughter for whatever gain they want. Main character runs and away and finds a man who loves her. Fmc is very naive and demure.

Science and fantasy mix.
3 stars.