Spitting Gold

Baroness Sylvie Devereux disowned her sister when she married, hoping to distance herself from her family’s shady past as spirit mediums. Then, in 1866 Paris, Sylvie is contacted by her estranged sister, Charlotte Mothe. Overwhelmed by bills and contending with her father’s illness, Charlotte persuades Sylvie to help out with one last lucrative con. They set their sights on the de Jacquinots, a dysfunctional yet wealthy family who believes they are haunted by their aunt, who was murdered during the French Revolution. As the scheme continues, the sisters realize that supernatural forces may actually be at work. What will the horrors bring to light? Lowkis’s gothic fiction debut is a captivating tale of betrayal, secrets, and the enduring bonds of family. Katherine Press narrates the sisters’ complicated feelings for each other, perfectly capturing each woman’s personality and inner thoughts. The first half of the book is told from Sylvie’s perspective, and the second from Charlotte’s, giving listeners a well-rounded view of both characters. Though the pacing in the second half drags a bit, this creepy gothic story still provides plenty of thrills.