Summary
Haunting Adeline by H.D. Carlton explores the dark romance genre, combining psychological thriller elements with horror. The story is set in Parsons Manor, Washington state, where writer Adeline Reilly inherits her grandmother's home. Adeline investigates her family's past. Zade Meadows, a vigilante with complex motivations, becomes involved in her life. The narrative examines human emotion, addressing themes of obsession and the boundary between consent and dominance. Carlton uses gothic imagery to develop the story.
Plot
Haunting Adeline by H.D. Carlton explores psychological intrigue, romance, and supernatural themes. The novel focuses on Adeline Reilly, an author who inherits the mysterious Parsons Manor in Washington. She becomes embroiled in the unresolved murder of her great-grandmother, Gigi, while being stalked by Zade Meadows.
The story alternates between perspectives. Adeline, dubbed “The Manipulator,” initially fears Zade’s presence, marked by unsettling gifts. Zade, referred to as “The Shadow,” has a mission to dismantle human trafficking networks, adding complexity to his role as both guardian and danger.
Zade’s obsession with Adeline intensifies. After a confrontation in a club, he kills a man named Arch, who had shown interest in Adeline, sending a violent message. Simultaneously, Adeline's investigation into Gigi’s death intersects with Zade's fight against the Society, a group involved in dark rituals.
Adeline and Zade develop a relationship charged with fear and seduction, blurring lines between captivation and danger. Despite Zade’s menacing facade, he seeks Adeline’s affection and draws her into his mission. Their connection deepens amid confrontations and shared vulnerabilities.
The narrative reaches a climax as Adeline and Zade expose the Society. They confront its members during a spectral carnival named Satan’s Affair, with Adeline's lineage entwined in the deceit. Their conflict with Mark Williams ends with Zade’s vengeance and revelations.
Concluding the story, Zade secures critical details about the Society through Daniel Boveri. Adeline discovers Frank Williams was responsible for Gigi’s murder. The family's hidden history unravels as Zade plans to dismantle the Society, setting the stage for the sequel.
Characters
Adeline Reilly: Adeline, the main character, is an author who becomes involved in a risky relationship with Zade. Her experiences are linked to her family's mysterious past at Parsons Manor.
