Unraveling Secrets in Jenn Bennett’s The Prince of Mourning
Sometimes, a book calls out to you, resonating with your own fascination for the gothic and mysterious. That was the case for me with Jenn Bennett’s The Prince of Mourning. As a self-proclaimed lover of all things atmospheric, the intriguing premise of a heroine navigating the eerie shadows of a grand estate (and seeing ghosts, no less!) felt like an irresistible invitation. I’d like to express my gratitude to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Set against the backdrop of the late 1800s, The Prince of Mourning invites us into the life of Molly, a nursing student who isn’t afraid to break societal norms. Her clandestine nightly escapades through hospital wards reveal her desperate thirst for knowledge and an admirable rebellious spirit. Yet, what sets Molly apart is her spectral sight; she communicates with the ghosts that linger around her. This blend of determination, curiosity, and supernatural capability makes her a compelling protagonist—one who feels to me like a modern young woman trapped in a historical setting.
Bennett’s lush prose conjures an unsettling atmosphere filled with decaying grandeur and whispers of the past. The sprawling estate where much of the story unfolds becomes a character in its own right, with its dark halls and secrets providing an immersive reading experience. I found myself holding my breath during those initial chapters, especially when we encounter a mysterious boy named Nin, chained in the basement and seemingly untouched by time. Bennett builds tension masterfully here, creating a delicious sense of dread that kept me turning the pages.
However, I did feel moments where Molly’s modern language felt a bit jarring against the historical backdrop. Nevertheless, her intelligence and agency shine through and make her a character worth rooting for. As for the titular Prince of Mourning, he becomes more prominent in the latter half of the novel, revealing a broader narrative that intertwines ghosts, gods, and legacies. Some may find this shift somewhat disjointed, as if two separate tales were stitched together, but I appreciated the depth it added to the storyline.
The romance is subtle, evoking emotion rather than intimacy, which lends a touching warmth to the haunting atmosphere. Although the pacing falters at times, the bond that develops between Molly and the enigmatic nobleman she tends to adds a beautifully understated layer, making me cheer for them even as shadows threaten their happiness.
While the conclusion felt a bit rushed and left some threads dangling, the emotional resonance of Molly’s journey kept me engaged. With elements of occult magic and a strong female protagonist navigating the complexities of class and gender, The Prince of Mourning is a moody escape that’s perfect for fall.
I believe this book will appeal to fans of gothic fantasy, particularly those who appreciate a strong heroine, atmospheric settings, and intricate tales wrapped in mystery. Personally, reading Bennett’s novel was like slipping into another world—a lingering sense of the uncanny that follows me long after I’ve closed the cover. If you’re ready for an adventure through haunted halls, imbued with haunting beauty and emotional depth, then The Prince of Mourning is your next read.