The Widow of Pale Harbor

Fox’s passable sophomore effort (after 2018’s The Witch of Willow Hall) sits squarely in the gothic romance genre. In 1845, Gabriel Stone moves to Pale Harbor, Maine, in order to take the vacant position of minister. He’s still grieving the death of his wife, who died in childbirth a year prior, when he meets the mysterious and wealthy widow Sophronia Carver, who never leaves her home. The townsfolk believe she murdered her husband, and children claim she’s a witch. As Sophy and Gabriel become closer, strange events with similarities to Edgar Allan Poe stories threaten their burgeoning relationship and the wellbeing of the town. The inclusion of Poe elements elevates the typical “mysterious threats” plot, and Sophy is a strong gothic heroine. However, she’s diminished by the bland Gabriel, who falls for her a little too quickly considering his supposedly all-consuming grief. Fans of gothic romances will find this one capable but not exceptional. (Sept.)