If you’ve been craving a paranormal romance that’s equal parts cozy and spicy, Love at First Fright delivers. Set in a haunted English manor full of quirky ghosts (including an adorable ghostly dog), this story blends Gothic atmosphere with flirty banter, sizzling chemistry, and an age-gap romance! It’s perfect for readers who love their romances with a little supernatural twist and a whole lot of heart.
Summary
Rosemary Shaw has always lived with ghosts, literally! At twenty-nine, her ability to see the dead has fueled a successful career writing horror novels, and now her most popular book is being adapted into a film. She’s serving as both screenwriter and executive producer, which should be a dream come true except for the casting of Ellis Finch, a forty-something Hollywood heartthrob better known for action roles than Gothic horror.
Rosemary is convinced Ellis is all wrong for the part and even tries to have him replaced. Ellis, meanwhile, is just as frustrated to learn the author herself doubts his ability to pull of this role. But he’s determined to prove her wrong. What neither expects is the spark between them and only grow stronger amidst the cozy chaos of Hallowvale Manor, a filming location filled with friendly ghosts, quirky Regency-era specters, and even a ghostly dog!
As banter turns to attraction and trust deepens, Rosemary risks exposing her biggest secret (her ability to see the dead) and Ellis must decide whether he’s willing to shed the movie star persona and embrace the parts of himself he usually hides.
Together, they find themselves navigating not only a haunted manor but also a relationship that’s equal parts sweet, sexy, and supernatural!
Review
Love at First Fright is a paranormal romance that feels both familiar and refreshing. It takes classic Gothic elements (an English manor, lingering ghosts, secrets long hidden behind closed doors) and layers them with tropes that rom-com and spicy romance readers love: dislike-to-love banter, age-gap tension, and a surprising dose of kink!
Rosemary and Ellis are opposites in ways that make their chemistry so good! She’s sharp, guarded, and practical, while he’s charming but weary of his movie-star image. Their dynamic feels believable because their dislike doesn’t overstay its welcome. It simmers just long enough to create tension, then quickly turns into something deeper and more intimate. Communication between them, especially around insecurities and preferences, is a highlight for me!
The ghosts add a whimsical, cozy layer that keeps the story from ever getting too heavy. From a loyal dog ghost to Regency-era companions who bring in LGBTQ+ representation, the paranormal elements give the book so much charm and humor.
The third-act conflict gets resolved quickly, but that actually works here because their romance is built on such strong communication. Rather than dragging out unnecessary drama, the author shows that Rosemary and Ellis are already capable of navigating obstacles together!
Why You’ll Like It
This book is for you if you’re into:
👻 Paranormal romance with cozy haunted-manor vibes
💘 Age-gap spice (29F/41M)
🔥 Dom/sub dynamics (soft dom energy, well-handled)
📚 Bisexual main characters and broader LGBTQ+ rep
💬 Banter that evolves into heartfelt communication
It’s a mash-up that might sound unusual with ghosts and Gothic atmosphere on one side, spicy rom-com on the other but the combination really works! The result is a paranormal romance that’s cozy, sexy, and emotionally satisfying.
Read-Alikes if you loved Love at First Fright!
1.The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling
Nine years ago, Vivi hexed her ex after a heartbreak thinking it was harmless. Now he’s back in town, chaos is breaking loose (talking cats, murderous toys, angry spirits), and the only way to stop it is to team up with the man she swore off forever!
2. A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna
Sera Swan was once one of Britain’s most powerful witches—until she lost most of her magic. Now she runs a magical inn with her resurrected great-aunt, a talking fox, and a whole lot of quirky chaos. When icy historian Luke Larsen arrives, Sera discovers that family, magic, and maybe even romance might be the key to reclaiming her future.
3. Love’s a Witch by Tricia O’Malley
Think Charmed meets The Pumpkin Spice Café. Sloane MacGregor swore she’d never return to Briarhaven, Scotland—but when a curse calls her back, she clashes with Knox, the grumpy mayor determined to keep her away. Hexes, sparks, and small-town magic make this a cozy witchy treat.
For more fall reading recs check out our full 2025 fall rom com guide!
Final Thoughts
Love at First Fright is addicting, adorable, and unexpectedly tender. If you want a romance that blends cozy supernatural fun with sizzling attraction and well-drawn emotional arcs, this one is a treat. I devoured it quickly and found myself grinning at the balance of humor, heart, and haunting.
