22 Jul “Secrets and Shadows: Unveiling the Mystique of The House on Prytania”
Book Review: The House on Prytania (Royal Street Book 2) by Karen White
As a lover of Southern tales steeped in history and a dash of the supernatural, The House on Prytania caught my attention the moment I saw Karen White’s name on the cover. Having previously enjoyed her ability to blend rich characters with an atmospheric setting, I knew I was in for a treat. The drawing allure of New Orleans—its haunting streets, vibrant culture, and the whispers of spirits past—made this second installment in the Royal Street series feel like an unmissable journey into a world where the living and the dead intertwine.
At the heart of the story is Nola Trenholm, a woman grappling with ghosts—both figurative and literal. Having recently purchased a Creole cottage, she soon discovers that her new home comes with a few unwanted residents. The nuanced way White embraces the concept of haunting—both the lingering spirits and the emotional scars that tether us to our past—left me reflecting on the idea of closure and the long shadows of history. It’s a theme that resonates deeply, especially in a city as storied as New Orleans.
The narrative unfolds with the return of Sunny Ryan, Beau’s long-lost sister, who adds layers of complexity to Nola’s life. As the plot thickens, Nola finds herself torn between aiding Beau, who exudes an enigmatic charm despite his personal vendettas, and confronting her own emotional turmoil connected to Michael Hebert, a figure from her past. White handles the interplay of romance and suspense with finesse, ensuring that each character’s choices impact the plot’s tension and depth. The moments when Beau seeks justice for Sunny’s kidnapping add an evocative layer to his character, making the reader root for his quest even when it risks alienating Nola.
White’s writing shines particularly in her vivid descriptions of New Orleans—there’s a sense of immediacy as she transports you to the darkened balconies and noisy street corners where the past and present collide. I couldn’t help but admire her skillful pacing; the plot unraveled gradually, revealing twists that I never saw coming. A quote that struck me was, “On the road to revenge, dig two graves.” It encapsulates a resonating truth about the cycles of vengeance and the emotional baggage each character carries. Moments like this made me pause, nodding in agreement with the larger truths buried beneath the ghostly intrigue.
Returning to this series felt like catching up with old friends. Nola, Beau, and their supporting cast—especially Nola’s friend Jolene—are palpable; their dynamics are layered with history and heart. As a reader, I felt both tension and warmth through their interactions, making me invested in their outcomes.
I highly recommend The House on Prytania to readers who enjoy a mix of haunting mystery, love entanglements, and rich settings. If you’re someone who appreciates books that explore the threads of family histories and the roles we all play in shaping our destinies, this one’s for you. For me, it was a delightful escape—a novel that lingers long after the last page is turned, much like the ghosts that haunt its pages. So grab a cup of coffee and settle in; Karen White’s narrative will keep you captivated until the final reveal.
You can find The House on Prytania (Royal Street Book 2) here >>
