I want to emphasize how crucial it is to support creators—especially indie authors who pour their souls into stories like this. That said, I discovered some legal options that might help. Sites like Project Gutenberg or Open Library occasionally feature older works with similar vibes, and sometimes publishers offer free chapters to hook readers.
For 'Paperwhite Lily' specifically, check if the author has a Patreon or newsletter with previews. Many writers share excerpts to build their audience ethically. I’d also recommend joining niche Discord servers or Tumblr communities dedicated to Gothic lit—fans often exchange legit free resources there. Just avoid sketchy aggregator sites; they’re riddled with malware and steal revenue from the very people making the art we love.