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The Grief House
Everyone is lying
But the dead know the truth
A week-long grief retreat on a beautiful country estate with no phones and no wifi isn't ex-tarot reader Blue's usual getaway. But ever since her mother's death she's been carrying a secret. Could this finally help her let it go?
When she arrives, it's raining, and there's something strange about the house. Only a few guests have made it through the weather. As the owners, Molly and Joshua Park, try desperately to cling to normality, the storm worsens until they're stranded in the house – cut off from the outside world.
And after one of the guests disappears in the night, Blue wonders who around her, the Parks and the guests, is telling the truth about why they're there – and whose grief might be hiding a deeper secret.
The floodwater rises. Everyone is keeping secrets – but only one is a killer. Can Blue escape with her life, and her sanity?
But the dead know the truth
A week-long grief retreat on a beautiful country estate with no phones and no wifi isn't ex-tarot reader Blue's usual getaway. But ever since her mother's death she's been carrying a secret. Could this finally help her let it go?
When she arrives, it's raining, and there's something strange about the house. Only a few guests have made it through the weather. As the owners, Molly and Joshua Park, try desperately to cling to normality, the storm worsens until they're stranded in the house – cut off from the outside world.
And after one of the guests disappears in the night, Blue wonders who around her, the Parks and the guests, is telling the truth about why they're there – and whose grief might be hiding a deeper secret.
The floodwater rises. Everyone is keeping secrets – but only one is a killer. Can Blue escape with her life, and her sanity?
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2023
9 people are currently reading
414 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 18, 2024
What initially seems to be a tranquil respite from the world quickly transforms into a chilling tale of isolation and suspicion. The setting – a grand house surrounded by relentless rain and rising floodwaters – adds a layer of atmospheric tension that flows off every page. Thorne weaves a sense of foreboding throughout the narrative, making the house itself feel like a character with its own secrets.
Blue is a compelling protagonist, struggling to come to terms with her mother’s death and the weight of her concealed truth. Her journey towards acceptance and self-discovery unfolds amidst a backdrop of escalating uncertainty and danger. The supporting cast, including the eccentric owners Molly and Joshua and the eclectic mix of retreat guests, each harbour their own grief and hidden motives, adding depth to the unfolding mystery.
Visit the blog for more: https://featzreviews.com/the-grief-ho...
Blue is a compelling protagonist, struggling to come to terms with her mother’s death and the weight of her concealed truth. Her journey towards acceptance and self-discovery unfolds amidst a backdrop of escalating uncertainty and danger. The supporting cast, including the eccentric owners Molly and Joshua and the eclectic mix of retreat guests, each harbour their own grief and hidden motives, adding depth to the unfolding mystery.
Visit the blog for more: https://featzreviews.com/the-grief-ho...
June 11, 2023
4+ stars
This book makes every single thing to be either sinister or spooky... and I'm perfectly OK with that.
Blue is an amazing main character, with so very much baggage that I feel we could have whole books written about her life rather than just the odd bit we got here.
A mystery unfolds, and there's a few scary moments, but equally one particular scene I found too emotional... basically it has ALL the feelings.
An excellent read.
This book makes every single thing to be either sinister or spooky... and I'm perfectly OK with that.
Blue is an amazing main character, with so very much baggage that I feel we could have whole books written about her life rather than just the odd bit we got here.
A mystery unfolds, and there's a few scary moments, but equally one particular scene I found too emotional... basically it has ALL the feelings.
An excellent read.
March 28, 2024
The Story follows blue as she tries desperately to navigate the passing of her mother. She doesn't know really how to feel and so she books a week away at The Grief House, a retreat ran by Mollie and Joshua. Now, instantly I thought there was something really off about Molly. She's just too keen to mother people. Too genteel. I don't think that's what people need from their retreat but anyway.
Blue has had a difficult upbringing. She was raised in poverty and struggled to make sense of her gifts. Gifts that her mother forced upon her, made her hone them before she was ready. It really was a case of a mother living vicariously through the child. It made me very uncomfortable. Her memories include waiting in the job centre queue, trying to pour curdled milk into a bottle for her sibling and witnessing her mother phase out from reality. Life wasn't easy for Blue and when her mother passed away she discovered things that chilled her to the bone.
Now, I really like the play on chapter titles with tarot card names, that was a nice touch. I did struggle with the pacing of this one - it felt very slow for the first 50% and I had considered putting it down. There was enough eerie tension laced throughout to keep me going but I did feel a bit disappointed with the ending...we already kind of knew what had happened to a certain character it was a bit of an anti-climax.
Blue has had a difficult upbringing. She was raised in poverty and struggled to make sense of her gifts. Gifts that her mother forced upon her, made her hone them before she was ready. It really was a case of a mother living vicariously through the child. It made me very uncomfortable. Her memories include waiting in the job centre queue, trying to pour curdled milk into a bottle for her sibling and witnessing her mother phase out from reality. Life wasn't easy for Blue and when her mother passed away she discovered things that chilled her to the bone.
Now, I really like the play on chapter titles with tarot card names, that was a nice touch. I did struggle with the pacing of this one - it felt very slow for the first 50% and I had considered putting it down. There was enough eerie tension laced throughout to keep me going but I did feel a bit disappointed with the ending...we already kind of knew what had happened to a certain character it was a bit of an anti-climax.
August 22, 2025
I loved the premise with this book.
A statley home in the Somerset levels which has been remodeled as a retreat, the books protagonist ex-tarot reader Blue decided to check in at Hope Marsh House in an attempt to heal herself after the death of her mother 3 years prior.
Poor weather, secluded location and rules of no phones and Wi-Fi alongside other guests who also hold secrets...
Trapped and isolated, this novel has all the hallmarks of a great creepy mystery.
It's a nice slow burner with super short chapters that kept me reading.
The narrative switches between the present and the past and whilst Blue was a complex character, it was easy to warm to her.
A statley home in the Somerset levels which has been remodeled as a retreat, the books protagonist ex-tarot reader Blue decided to check in at Hope Marsh House in an attempt to heal herself after the death of her mother 3 years prior.
Poor weather, secluded location and rules of no phones and Wi-Fi alongside other guests who also hold secrets...
Trapped and isolated, this novel has all the hallmarks of a great creepy mystery.
It's a nice slow burner with super short chapters that kept me reading.
The narrative switches between the present and the past and whilst Blue was a complex character, it was easy to warm to her.
November 28, 2023
Wow! Where to start?
This book had the vibes of Shirley Jackson’s Haunting of Hill House which I adored too!
Blue joins guests at Grief House after struggling with the death of her mum three years prior, is all as it seems? Molly & Joshua only welcome in four guests this time due to the weather, the floods mean others can’t make it. Then one guest disappears - but they all can’t leave because of the flood, so what happened to him?
Blue senses things, she’s hoping no one else picks up on her gift, but then she starts seeing things within the house, smelling things and she knows everything isn’t as cosy as first made out.
This book switches between Blue being a young child and exploring her gift to help her mum pay bills, to then being at Grief House and trying to find out what happened there all those years ago.
This book had the vibes of Shirley Jackson’s Haunting of Hill House which I adored too!
Blue joins guests at Grief House after struggling with the death of her mum three years prior, is all as it seems? Molly & Joshua only welcome in four guests this time due to the weather, the floods mean others can’t make it. Then one guest disappears - but they all can’t leave because of the flood, so what happened to him?
Blue senses things, she’s hoping no one else picks up on her gift, but then she starts seeing things within the house, smelling things and she knows everything isn’t as cosy as first made out.
This book switches between Blue being a young child and exploring her gift to help her mum pay bills, to then being at Grief House and trying to find out what happened there all those years ago.
July 28, 2023
I found this to be the perfect mix of thriller and horror as it mixes the mystery element with clairvoyance. The plot of this was good, I enjoyed the split timeline, but it could be difficult to follow as there are a lot of characters involved.
Overall, I think this is a good thriller book that has a somewhat happy ending but leaves it open to interpretation as to what happens to the rest of the characters.
The novel to me has similarities to The Ghost Whisperer TV series. So if you enjoyed that show in the early 00s, then I'd recommend reading The Grief House.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book.
Overall, I think this is a good thriller book that has a somewhat happy ending but leaves it open to interpretation as to what happens to the rest of the characters.
The novel to me has similarities to The Ghost Whisperer TV series. So if you enjoyed that show in the early 00s, then I'd recommend reading The Grief House.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book.
February 6, 2024
Haunting
December 3, 2023
fantastic
I really, really really liked this book! Rebecca Thorne is a genius and oh how I loved Blue, Bridget, Bodhi.
I hope there’s more Blue to come in future
I really, really really liked this book! Rebecca Thorne is a genius and oh how I loved Blue, Bridget, Bodhi.
I hope there’s more Blue to come in future
September 1, 2023
So good!
Thrillers with some horror twists, especially on the paranormal spectrum are quite tricky to create. There´s a danger that it will turn out to be silly, if not stupid. Especially movies. So to write something with a solid story, great characters, dense atmosphere that would keep the reader engaged all the time is a hell of a task! Well, Ms. Rebecca well done!
In this book, there is nothing, nothing! that I don't like. It´s almost perfect! The storyline is developing smoothly and well-timed. Yes, it's a bit predictable, but somehow I don´t mind. The main character Blue is interesting and likeable. The ending is open to interpretation, which is great because it brings new questions about the characters and the plot.
What I enjoy the most in this book is the language. I don´t think I ever read a thriller/horror-ish so beautifully written. All the smells, colors, and emotions are painted by a literary Van Gogh. The author masterfully creates every scene, and every moment using truly wonderful sentences. Nature here plays a key role in building the atmosphere and this is the very rare case when the author is capable of creating all of the above within one, maybe two short sentences.
I´m impressed and cannot wait for the next novel by Rebecca Thorne.
Thrillers with some horror twists, especially on the paranormal spectrum are quite tricky to create. There´s a danger that it will turn out to be silly, if not stupid. Especially movies. So to write something with a solid story, great characters, dense atmosphere that would keep the reader engaged all the time is a hell of a task! Well, Ms. Rebecca well done!
In this book, there is nothing, nothing! that I don't like. It´s almost perfect! The storyline is developing smoothly and well-timed. Yes, it's a bit predictable, but somehow I don´t mind. The main character Blue is interesting and likeable. The ending is open to interpretation, which is great because it brings new questions about the characters and the plot.
What I enjoy the most in this book is the language. I don´t think I ever read a thriller/horror-ish so beautifully written. All the smells, colors, and emotions are painted by a literary Van Gogh. The author masterfully creates every scene, and every moment using truly wonderful sentences. Nature here plays a key role in building the atmosphere and this is the very rare case when the author is capable of creating all of the above within one, maybe two short sentences.
I´m impressed and cannot wait for the next novel by Rebecca Thorne.
October 26, 2023
Note to self: don't stay up until 2.30am to finish reading this book because then you'll have nightmares! Oops!
This was a chilling read that had me on the edge of my seat with my heart in my throat, and will stick with me for some time. I loved the twists in this story. It wasn't until the 40% mark that I realised a couple of characters were ghosts! I felt so sad, especially when I realised why they were there. In the beginning I thought it was just a ghost story but oof it is so much more! I enjoyed the multi-POV and the flitting between past and present (I loved the backstory of Blue's childhood). I found it so interesting that the present reflected the past. Without getting all spoilery, Blue's mum, Bridget, had a condition that was misdiagnosed but the present showed us what a person with that condition was actually capable of! A thrilling well-weaved story with characters you'll love and some you'll mistrust and will make you feel nervous and guarded. A story that gave me Misery vibes. All I could imagine was Kathy Bates as one of the characters.*shivers* This book will cater for both ghost story lovers and thriller lovers.
This was a chilling read that had me on the edge of my seat with my heart in my throat, and will stick with me for some time. I loved the twists in this story. It wasn't until the 40% mark that I realised a couple of characters were ghosts! I felt so sad, especially when I realised why they were there. In the beginning I thought it was just a ghost story but oof it is so much more! I enjoyed the multi-POV and the flitting between past and present (I loved the backstory of Blue's childhood). I found it so interesting that the present reflected the past. Without getting all spoilery, Blue's mum, Bridget, had a condition that was misdiagnosed but the present showed us what a person with that condition was actually capable of! A thrilling well-weaved story with characters you'll love and some you'll mistrust and will make you feel nervous and guarded. A story that gave me Misery vibes. All I could imagine was Kathy Bates as one of the characters.*shivers* This book will cater for both ghost story lovers and thriller lovers.
October 8, 2023
This book follows the story of Blue who finds herself at a grief resort with the pending third anniversary of her mother’s death. Blue has a secret ‘gift’ of seeing the dead especially the dead whose souls are not at peace, it’s a ‘gift’ she’s never really understood and one that she wants to keep a secret. She isn’t the only one with a secrets at this resort and can she help the people and also the dead without uncovering her own secret.
This was an enjoyable read, I was interested from the beginning although there was some areas that was a bit predictable.
This was an enjoyable read, I was interested from the beginning although there was some areas that was a bit predictable.
September 30, 2023
#TheGriefHouse #NetGalley I found this book quite hard to get into at the start but then the twists started coming & I couldn't put it down.
Blue (bell) has led a traumatic life but she doesn't understand why her mum is the way she is until she uncovers more of her mum's past after her mum passes away. This then leads her to enrol on a grief retreat where she finds everyone has secrets that are trying to stay hidden but the past as a way of unravelling.
An absolute gem of a book & a definite must read!
Blue (bell) has led a traumatic life but she doesn't understand why her mum is the way she is until she uncovers more of her mum's past after her mum passes away. This then leads her to enrol on a grief retreat where she finds everyone has secrets that are trying to stay hidden but the past as a way of unravelling.
An absolute gem of a book & a definite must read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2024
3.5 stars
This is a good supernatural thriller with an original storyline.
Blue heads to a retreat to deal with her grief after losing her Mum three years ago.
Blue had a special relationship with her Mum as she home schooled her and tried to encourage her spiritual gifts.
Once she’s at the retreat it’s clear Mr and Mrs Parks are hiding something and when the guests are left stranded at the house due to high water levels, things go from bad to worse.
A good read that I enjoyed.
Thanks to Raven Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
This is a good supernatural thriller with an original storyline.
Blue heads to a retreat to deal with her grief after losing her Mum three years ago.
Blue had a special relationship with her Mum as she home schooled her and tried to encourage her spiritual gifts.
Once she’s at the retreat it’s clear Mr and Mrs Parks are hiding something and when the guests are left stranded at the house due to high water levels, things go from bad to worse.
A good read that I enjoyed.
Thanks to Raven Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
November 11, 2023
I was intrigued by the synopsis for The Grief House. It’s part thriller, part horror but 100% a book that you will find hard to put down. It’s a book full of secrets and although this isn’t my usual centre of choice, I really enjoyed it. Thank you to NetGalley, Bloomsbury Publishing and the author for the chance to review.
July 12, 2023
4.5 Stars! No spoilers!
Triggers - grief, death, child loss, neglect
This is the first ARC i have ever read and reviewed and I'm glad I ended up with such an amazing one to start with.
This book was just the thing I have been looking for. The perfect mix of thriller, a little horror and the supernatural. The story was absolutely incredible, starting off as a story of heartbreak and people coming to terms with their losses, however there is an undercurrent of eeriness, a feeling that things are not quite right and just when you think you've figured it out, there is another twist that kept me hooked throughout.
I'll be honest the first few chapters were a bit of a struggle and I was a little confused of the time line and who's 3rd person point of view some of the scenes were coming from. Some of the writing was a little janky and there are a few, what I assume to be, typos and grammar errors, the persons name being overused when it didn't need to be rough example "Blue was thinking X, Y and Z and thought X & Y in Blues mind" (her mind would have been better here) or "Bridget was wondering what would happen, who would look after Bridget" (again just a her would have done, we know it's Bridget we are talking about right now" - these are just very little things that stood out to me with the writing HOWEVER these things did not take away how spectacular this story was and at around 35-40% of the way through the story had me in a choke-hold. It almost feels like the author really started to get going with the story with the writing really improving from this point on , that or I was so invested in the story I got used to the little irks I initially had. For me It would have been a 5 star without these issues within the writing itself which was not BAD just a few little tweaks needed I feel.
The description of characters and the different scenes and areas helped me really immerse myself in the story, I could picture it perfectly in my minds eye and at times I almost forgot I was reading. Each characters personality really shone through and were done extremely well and their visual descriptions too, I can still picture them how I envisioned them now, how they look, their mannerisms and quirks. I did not put this down all day, reading 90% yesterday and finishing it this morning.
Throughout there was an eeriness that kept me on edge, wanting to frantically turn the pages to see what happens next, you start to get an inkling of what is going on and as the story starts to piece together it makes it all the more exciting and gripping. So many things I really didn't see coming and a few that gave me the thrill of figuring out for myself as it all starts to become clearer.
The way the story started to piece together, giving you those "Ahhhhh!" moments that I've always loved remind me a lot of the works of Kazuo Ishiguro. I was also reminded a lot of Stephen King and his incredible thrillers/horror.
Overall this book was not what I was expecting and I mean that in a good way. It was everything I could have wanted in a story. The twists, the thrills, the adrenaline, the emotions, at one point I shed tears. I hope to read more by this author especially if she continues to create stories that grip like this!
Triggers - grief, death, child loss, neglect
This is the first ARC i have ever read and reviewed and I'm glad I ended up with such an amazing one to start with.
This book was just the thing I have been looking for. The perfect mix of thriller, a little horror and the supernatural. The story was absolutely incredible, starting off as a story of heartbreak and people coming to terms with their losses, however there is an undercurrent of eeriness, a feeling that things are not quite right and just when you think you've figured it out, there is another twist that kept me hooked throughout.
I'll be honest the first few chapters were a bit of a struggle and I was a little confused of the time line and who's 3rd person point of view some of the scenes were coming from. Some of the writing was a little janky and there are a few, what I assume to be, typos and grammar errors, the persons name being overused when it didn't need to be rough example "Blue was thinking X, Y and Z and thought X & Y in Blues mind" (her mind would have been better here) or "Bridget was wondering what would happen, who would look after Bridget" (again just a her would have done, we know it's Bridget we are talking about right now" - these are just very little things that stood out to me with the writing HOWEVER these things did not take away how spectacular this story was and at around 35-40% of the way through the story had me in a choke-hold. It almost feels like the author really started to get going with the story with the writing really improving from this point on , that or I was so invested in the story I got used to the little irks I initially had. For me It would have been a 5 star without these issues within the writing itself which was not BAD just a few little tweaks needed I feel.
The description of characters and the different scenes and areas helped me really immerse myself in the story, I could picture it perfectly in my minds eye and at times I almost forgot I was reading. Each characters personality really shone through and were done extremely well and their visual descriptions too, I can still picture them how I envisioned them now, how they look, their mannerisms and quirks. I did not put this down all day, reading 90% yesterday and finishing it this morning.
Throughout there was an eeriness that kept me on edge, wanting to frantically turn the pages to see what happens next, you start to get an inkling of what is going on and as the story starts to piece together it makes it all the more exciting and gripping. So many things I really didn't see coming and a few that gave me the thrill of figuring out for myself as it all starts to become clearer.
The way the story started to piece together, giving you those "Ahhhhh!" moments that I've always loved remind me a lot of the works of Kazuo Ishiguro. I was also reminded a lot of Stephen King and his incredible thrillers/horror.
Overall this book was not what I was expecting and I mean that in a good way. It was everything I could have wanted in a story. The twists, the thrills, the adrenaline, the emotions, at one point I shed tears. I hope to read more by this author especially if she continues to create stories that grip like this!
July 17, 2025
Я всё также в поиске хорошего хоррора про призраков и опять просчиталась. Казалось бы, такая красивая и завораживающая аннотация. Интересная героиня с мрачной тайной, завязанной на убийстве, небольшой дом, куда она едет, чтобы восстановить душевное спокойствие, милая семейная пара, владеющая этим местом, и призрак. Ну что может пойти не так-то? Тут тебе и невозможность просто собрать вещи и уехать из-за ужасных погодных условий, и странные исчезновения, и пугающие звуки, а с ними двери, которые открываются сами по себе. Я, правда, верила, что в этот раз мне повезёт сильнее, но довольно скоро осознала, что надеяться следовало меньше.
Блю переживает смерть матери, и чтобы хоть как-то с этим справиться, решает приехать в пансион, где приятная пожилая женщина позаботится о ней и подарит шанс на новую жизнь. Поначалу всё идёт, как и задумывалось. Героиня знакомится с другими посетителями дома и с приятной пожилой парой, владеющими им, а потом она слышит лай собак, а дверь её соседки начинает сама по себе открываться. У Блю есть мистический талант. Раньше она гадала на таро и у неё это прекрасно получалось, сейчас девушка просто может увидеть прошлое людей. А ещё она видит призраков. Именно с призраком героиня встречается в этом доме. Призрак маленькой девочки, просящей спасти её, и чтобы это сделать, нужно убить того человека, из-за которого девочка и умерла.
Наверное, для меня самый главный минус романа – главы от лица владелицы дома. Куда интереснее было бы не знать, что с ней что-то не так (если что, это не спойлер, там уже в начале всё ясно). Спасибо, что не вставили часть от её мужа, но это не сильно помогло. Когда ты первоначально знаешь, что с этими людьми не всё так прекрасно, то и интерес испаряется. А так как тема с призраками тоже слабенькая, остаётся лишь скучнейшая героиня с её травмой, завязанной на гадании. И Блю реально невероятно унылая девушка. Она такой была ещё до того, как её мать умерла, и после этой смерти всё стало только хуже.
Мне не было ни страшно, ни интересно. Я даже подумывала бросить, но я всегда даю тысячу шансов историям о призраках (и каждый раз оказываюсь ни с чем). А ещё мне хотелось увидеть развязку, а то вдруг она смогла бы полностью изменить моё мнение о романе в целом. Как видно из оценки, всё осталось по-прежнему. Поставила нейтральную оценку только по причине хорошей атмосферы странного местечка, где по колено воды и никуда нельзя уехать. Люблю такое, и у писательницы действительно неплохо вышла эта часть. Остальное же вгоняло меня в скуку и сон.
Блю переживает смерть матери, и чтобы хоть как-то с этим справиться, решает приехать в пансион, где приятная пожилая женщина позаботится о ней и подарит шанс на новую жизнь. Поначалу всё идёт, как и задумывалось. Героиня знакомится с другими посетителями дома и с приятной пожилой парой, владеющими им, а потом она слышит лай собак, а дверь её соседки начинает сама по себе открываться. У Блю есть мистический талант. Раньше она гадала на таро и у неё это прекрасно получалось, сейчас девушка просто может увидеть прошлое людей. А ещё она видит призраков. Именно с призраком героиня встречается в этом доме. Призрак маленькой девочки, просящей спасти её, и чтобы это сделать, нужно убить того человека, из-за которого девочка и умерла.
Наверное, для меня самый главный минус романа – главы от лица владелицы дома. Куда интереснее было бы не знать, что с ней что-то не так (если что, это не спойлер, там уже в начале всё ясно). Спасибо, что не вставили часть от её мужа, но это не сильно помогло. Когда ты первоначально знаешь, что с этими людьми не всё так прекрасно, то и интерес испаряется. А так как тема с призраками тоже слабенькая, остаётся лишь скучнейшая героиня с её травмой, завязанной на гадании. И Блю реально невероятно унылая девушка. Она такой была ещё до того, как её мать умерла, и после этой смерти всё стало только хуже.
Мне не было ни страшно, ни интересно. Я даже подумывала бросить, но я всегда даю тысячу шансов историям о призраках (и каждый раз оказываюсь ни с чем). А ещё мне хотелось увидеть развязку, а то вдруг она смогла бы полностью изменить моё мнение о романе в целом. Как видно из оценки, всё осталось по-прежнему. Поставила нейтральную оценку только по причине хорошей атмосферы странного местечка, где по колено воды и никуда нельзя уехать. Люблю такое, и у писательницы действительно неплохо вышла эта часть. Остальное же вгоняло меня в скуку и сон.
January 16, 2024
Venturing into the haunting world crafted by Rebecca Thorne in "The Grief House" was an exhilarating journey through a tapestry of horror, thriller, and the supernatural. From the very beginning, I was captivated by the enigmatic protagonist, Blue, and the eerie atmosphere that permeates the grief retreat.
Blue, a former tarot card reader with the ability to perceive the supernatural, sets the stage for a narrative that defies expectations. The grief house, initially a haven for mourning and healing, unfolds into a sinister realm where secrets lie shrouded in the shadows. Thorne skillfully blends genres, offering a thrilling concoction of horror and suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat.
The setting, a secluded estate with no phones and no wifi, adds an extra layer of isolation, intensifying the atmospheric tension. The storm raging outside mirrors the tempest of emotions and hidden truths brewing within the characters. The suspenseful beginning gradually evolves into a heart-pounding tale of true horror as the plot unravels.
The originality of the plot and Thorne's masterful storytelling left me engrossed throughout the entire reading experience. The sinister vibes, coupled with the thrill of uncovering buried secrets, created an unputdownable narrative that exceeded my expectations. The transition from a thriller to true horror was executed flawlessly, adding depth and complexity to the storyline.
"The Grief House" is a compelling read that seamlessly weaves together elements of grief, supernatural encounters, and a chilling mystery. Thorne's exploration of the characters' hidden depths and the escalating sense of dread kept me eagerly turning the pages. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fellow readers who relish a riveting thriller with supernatural twists—a journey that promises both heart-pounding fear and the satisfaction of unraveling a gripping mystery.
Blue, a former tarot card reader with the ability to perceive the supernatural, sets the stage for a narrative that defies expectations. The grief house, initially a haven for mourning and healing, unfolds into a sinister realm where secrets lie shrouded in the shadows. Thorne skillfully blends genres, offering a thrilling concoction of horror and suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat.
The setting, a secluded estate with no phones and no wifi, adds an extra layer of isolation, intensifying the atmospheric tension. The storm raging outside mirrors the tempest of emotions and hidden truths brewing within the characters. The suspenseful beginning gradually evolves into a heart-pounding tale of true horror as the plot unravels.
The originality of the plot and Thorne's masterful storytelling left me engrossed throughout the entire reading experience. The sinister vibes, coupled with the thrill of uncovering buried secrets, created an unputdownable narrative that exceeded my expectations. The transition from a thriller to true horror was executed flawlessly, adding depth and complexity to the storyline.
"The Grief House" is a compelling read that seamlessly weaves together elements of grief, supernatural encounters, and a chilling mystery. Thorne's exploration of the characters' hidden depths and the escalating sense of dread kept me eagerly turning the pages. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fellow readers who relish a riveting thriller with supernatural twists—a journey that promises both heart-pounding fear and the satisfaction of unraveling a gripping mystery.
April 12, 2024
I dove into this book completely unaware of its supernatural elements. It wasn't until encountering the first "ghost" that I realized it's a blend of mystery and the supernatural. Normally, I'm not drawn to supernatural themes in a mystery novel, but I made an exception for this one, and I'm glad I did because I ended up quite enjoying it.
The story begins with several characters arriving at Hope Marsh House for a week-long grief retreat. Blue, the main protagonist, is there to mourn her mother's death, but strange occurrences in the house soon capture everyone's attention. One guest disappears overnight, Blue's food turns cold to the touch while others remain warm, and the owners of the house, the Parks couple, seem to be harboring secrets. As the story unfolds, tensions rise and suspicious mount.
For readers who aren't fans of supernatural elements may find aspects of the book unrealistic, I encourage them to give it a chance. The plot, while good, could have been tighter in places, particularly in terms of pacing, but it does allow for rich character development. Written in the third person - a refreshing change from the first-person narratives I typically encounter - the book offers an in-depth exploration of each character's psyche. Additionally, the setup of the house was ominously gothic, and I have to say, I got goosebumps a few times reading it. This added an extra layer of intrigue to the already suspenseful atmosphere of the story.
What truly captivated me, however, was Blue's character. Her journey through grief and loneliness after her mother's passing is depicted with raw emotion and authenticity. Her development throughout the story is compelling, drawing the reader deeper into her world.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and gripping read. I highly recommend giving it a try.
The story begins with several characters arriving at Hope Marsh House for a week-long grief retreat. Blue, the main protagonist, is there to mourn her mother's death, but strange occurrences in the house soon capture everyone's attention. One guest disappears overnight, Blue's food turns cold to the touch while others remain warm, and the owners of the house, the Parks couple, seem to be harboring secrets. As the story unfolds, tensions rise and suspicious mount.
For readers who aren't fans of supernatural elements may find aspects of the book unrealistic, I encourage them to give it a chance. The plot, while good, could have been tighter in places, particularly in terms of pacing, but it does allow for rich character development. Written in the third person - a refreshing change from the first-person narratives I typically encounter - the book offers an in-depth exploration of each character's psyche. Additionally, the setup of the house was ominously gothic, and I have to say, I got goosebumps a few times reading it. This added an extra layer of intrigue to the already suspenseful atmosphere of the story.
What truly captivated me, however, was Blue's character. Her journey through grief and loneliness after her mother's passing is depicted with raw emotion and authenticity. Her development throughout the story is compelling, drawing the reader deeper into her world.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and gripping read. I highly recommend giving it a try.
January 4, 2024
Everyone is lying
But the dead know the truth
Blue has booked herself into a week-long grief retreat at Hope Marsh House; this isn't her usual getaway but she's hoping it will help her deal with the secret she's been carrying since her mother's death 3 years prior.
On arrival it's raining and there's something strange about the house. Not all guests have arrived, and the Parks try to cling to normality as the storm worsens and cuts them off. One of the guests disappears in the night, and Blue is left wondering who she is stranded with and what secrets hide behind their grief.
I devoured this novel; I couldn't remember what it was about other than being centered around grief. It was a slow beginning and it took me a little to warm up to Blue; once you got to know a bit about her everything seemed to fall into place about why she was the way she was.
There's something unsettling about Hope Marsh House but finding out what it is takes time. The Parks seem to be the perfect hosts, but are they what they seem or is Blue slowly losing her grip on reality?
The narrative flicks between present Blue and past Blue and about a third of a way through a third narrative is added and it takes a bit to figure out what relevance this has to the overall story.
This is one I'd recommend for people who enjoy a slower start to a book, but one that is very well written. Everything is revealed in time in relation to the story and does not feel rushed. This is a very clever book that falls in the horror thriller genre due to the mystery aspect but also the unsettledness to it and nothing being what it seems.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bloomsbury publishing, and Rebecca Thorne for an advance copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
But the dead know the truth
Blue has booked herself into a week-long grief retreat at Hope Marsh House; this isn't her usual getaway but she's hoping it will help her deal with the secret she's been carrying since her mother's death 3 years prior.
On arrival it's raining and there's something strange about the house. Not all guests have arrived, and the Parks try to cling to normality as the storm worsens and cuts them off. One of the guests disappears in the night, and Blue is left wondering who she is stranded with and what secrets hide behind their grief.
I devoured this novel; I couldn't remember what it was about other than being centered around grief. It was a slow beginning and it took me a little to warm up to Blue; once you got to know a bit about her everything seemed to fall into place about why she was the way she was.
There's something unsettling about Hope Marsh House but finding out what it is takes time. The Parks seem to be the perfect hosts, but are they what they seem or is Blue slowly losing her grip on reality?
The narrative flicks between present Blue and past Blue and about a third of a way through a third narrative is added and it takes a bit to figure out what relevance this has to the overall story.
This is one I'd recommend for people who enjoy a slower start to a book, but one that is very well written. Everything is revealed in time in relation to the story and does not feel rushed. This is a very clever book that falls in the horror thriller genre due to the mystery aspect but also the unsettledness to it and nothing being what it seems.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bloomsbury publishing, and Rebecca Thorne for an advance copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2023
This novel follows Blue short for Bluebell. It has been three years since her mother died. They had an unconventional and ultimately tragic relationship. So Blue books herself into a country house that has been turned into a grief resort by Joshua and Molly Park. Blue has a secret. She is clairvoyant and can see the dead whose souls are not at rest. Blue starts to question things that are happening at the resort and when the weather changes suddenly and dramatically, the resort is cut off by flood water. It's then that Blue realises that Joshua and Molly have secrets of their own which they will do anything to protect.
Blue is a complex protagonist and you find yourself both liking and disliking her at the same time. The plot is complex and multi-layered and hops around with different POV’s and different time zones. Mostly, the book does carry this off, but sometimes it is a bit lacking.
The story is excellent. My only criticism is the pitch of the story. It wants to be a psychological thriller/locked room mystery/supernatural thriller/mild horror all at the same time. It doesn’t quite pull this off. My view is that if you like psychological thrillers/locked room mysteries, you will not find this ultimately satisfying.
If you like a supernatural thriller, however, you definitely need to get this book on your reading list.
My thanks to NetGalley, Rebecca Thorne and Bloomsbury Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.
Blue is a complex protagonist and you find yourself both liking and disliking her at the same time. The plot is complex and multi-layered and hops around with different POV’s and different time zones. Mostly, the book does carry this off, but sometimes it is a bit lacking.
The story is excellent. My only criticism is the pitch of the story. It wants to be a psychological thriller/locked room mystery/supernatural thriller/mild horror all at the same time. It doesn’t quite pull this off. My view is that if you like psychological thrillers/locked room mysteries, you will not find this ultimately satisfying.
If you like a supernatural thriller, however, you definitely need to get this book on your reading list.
My thanks to NetGalley, Rebecca Thorne and Bloomsbury Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.
July 24, 2023
I was lucky to have received an arc of this book and I am grateful for that.
This book reminded me of the TV show ghost whisperer. Grief House is book with multiple points of view and dual timelines that are necessary to the story.
Grief House is a powerful story around the issues of mental health, bereavement, loss and child murder. Rebecca Thorne has navigated these sensitive issues with care. The book left me thinking about how far our thoughts and emotions can overpower rational thinking, and can turn us to commit murder.
Imagine finding out your mum murdered your siblings
Imagine realising the ghosts that you can see are your siblings
Imagine finding out you cant have children and your applications for having children are rejected
Imagine bring put into a situation whereby you know a child is neglected, what would you do - report to social services or keep quite and bring the child home with you so you become the parent
Imagine that child needing an operation - what would you do - take the child to the hospital or try to do the operation your self
Reading Grief House was a journey into:-
How far a person can go for those they love
How important it is to get treatment and follow on support for mental illness
How lonely life can be for a child who is “gifted” with abilities to speak to the dead
How scary as a child it is to live with ghosts
This book reminded me of the TV show ghost whisperer. Grief House is book with multiple points of view and dual timelines that are necessary to the story.
Grief House is a powerful story around the issues of mental health, bereavement, loss and child murder. Rebecca Thorne has navigated these sensitive issues with care. The book left me thinking about how far our thoughts and emotions can overpower rational thinking, and can turn us to commit murder.
Imagine finding out your mum murdered your siblings
Imagine realising the ghosts that you can see are your siblings
Imagine finding out you cant have children and your applications for having children are rejected
Imagine bring put into a situation whereby you know a child is neglected, what would you do - report to social services or keep quite and bring the child home with you so you become the parent
Imagine that child needing an operation - what would you do - take the child to the hospital or try to do the operation your self
Reading Grief House was a journey into:-
How far a person can go for those they love
How important it is to get treatment and follow on support for mental illness
How lonely life can be for a child who is “gifted” with abilities to speak to the dead
How scary as a child it is to live with ghosts
January 11, 2024
Released 18th January 2024
This story follows Blue who finds herself at a grief retreat with a special gift, one she wants to keep a secret, because she can see the dead, especially those souls who are not at peace. However, she isn’t the only one with secrets at this retreat.
I found this book a bit of a struggle to get in to if I’m honest. There were a lot of characters to take in leaving me sometimes having to think about who was who which did interrupt my flow of reading, this also then made the storyline drag in places. However, despite wanting to put it down and move on to something else, I did persevere and at around the 40% mark the story did pick up, growing to be a lot more immersive—possibly because the storytelling and the writing seemed to improve from that point on.
In the end, It turned out to be an okay read, nothing wow. It was an unusual story with the paranormal element and would be good for the Spooky Season. I did find that the sensitive subjects of bereavement and mental health were well written and that’s what my rating is based on.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for providing me with an ARC in return for my honest opinion.
This story follows Blue who finds herself at a grief retreat with a special gift, one she wants to keep a secret, because she can see the dead, especially those souls who are not at peace. However, she isn’t the only one with secrets at this retreat.
I found this book a bit of a struggle to get in to if I’m honest. There were a lot of characters to take in leaving me sometimes having to think about who was who which did interrupt my flow of reading, this also then made the storyline drag in places. However, despite wanting to put it down and move on to something else, I did persevere and at around the 40% mark the story did pick up, growing to be a lot more immersive—possibly because the storytelling and the writing seemed to improve from that point on.
In the end, It turned out to be an okay read, nothing wow. It was an unusual story with the paranormal element and would be good for the Spooky Season. I did find that the sensitive subjects of bereavement and mental health were well written and that’s what my rating is based on.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for providing me with an ARC in return for my honest opinion.
January 24, 2024
When ex tarot reader Blue arrives at a week long grief retreat in a beautiful country estate, only a few guests have made it through the weather. As the floodwater rises and the storm worsens, they become stranded inside the house, cut off from the outside world..
Now before you think "oh I've read lots of locked room stories based on old manor houses" think again. Without giving anything away, because this is the best book to go in blind, just trust me when I say you haven't read anything like this. I was captivated by the sinister goings on in this supposedly safe haven and found the reveals round every corner to be both creepy and shocking! I try hard to work things out as I read but this caught me unawares many a time. Nothing is what it seems and an atmospheric manor house is the perfect setting. All the nooks and crannies can hide all sorts of things. The main characters were well fleshed out but Blue stood out as an enigma I empathised with the more that was unravelled along the way. The story flits back and forward from past and present both of which were as fascinating as each other and ensured the story went at a satisfying pace. The Grief House is an impressive genre defying read that will send shivers down your spine.
Now before you think "oh I've read lots of locked room stories based on old manor houses" think again. Without giving anything away, because this is the best book to go in blind, just trust me when I say you haven't read anything like this. I was captivated by the sinister goings on in this supposedly safe haven and found the reveals round every corner to be both creepy and shocking! I try hard to work things out as I read but this caught me unawares many a time. Nothing is what it seems and an atmospheric manor house is the perfect setting. All the nooks and crannies can hide all sorts of things. The main characters were well fleshed out but Blue stood out as an enigma I empathised with the more that was unravelled along the way. The story flits back and forward from past and present both of which were as fascinating as each other and ensured the story went at a satisfying pace. The Grief House is an impressive genre defying read that will send shivers down your spine.
July 31, 2023
Thank you so much to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc (UK & ANZ), Raven Books for this ARC.
I didn't read too much into the plot of this book before being given access and I'm really glad I didn't. The book wasn't quite what I expected, as I didn't realise there was a supernatural element.
Blue was a fantastic main character. Seeing the story through her eyes, as she grew from a small child, allowed me to see things quite innocently, their true nature coming to light later on in the book.
I thought Blue's character was a fantastic insight into how we can idolise our parents, even though sometimes they might be awful people. I found myself incredibly angry and frustrated with Blue's mother from the beginning, an achievement for the author.
Other characters in the book were also brilliantly-crafted. Molly, in particular, fascinated me all the way through. Such a strange psychology!
I would recommend and plan to buy this book for others who like mystery and thrillers. It was a fantastic read and I can't wait to read other books by Rebecca Thorne.
I didn't read too much into the plot of this book before being given access and I'm really glad I didn't. The book wasn't quite what I expected, as I didn't realise there was a supernatural element.
Blue was a fantastic main character. Seeing the story through her eyes, as she grew from a small child, allowed me to see things quite innocently, their true nature coming to light later on in the book.
I thought Blue's character was a fantastic insight into how we can idolise our parents, even though sometimes they might be awful people. I found myself incredibly angry and frustrated with Blue's mother from the beginning, an achievement for the author.
Other characters in the book were also brilliantly-crafted. Molly, in particular, fascinated me all the way through. Such a strange psychology!
I would recommend and plan to buy this book for others who like mystery and thrillers. It was a fantastic read and I can't wait to read other books by Rebecca Thorne.
December 1, 2023
Book released January 18th 2024
Ex -tarot card reader blue attends a week at a grief retreat 'Hope Marsh House' after the passing of her mother. A storm hits and escape is impossible.
A guest goes missing and Blue doesn't know who to believe as they are all hiding secrets...Carrying a secret of her own, will she eventually be able to let it out? And who is responsible?
Everyone is lying.
But the dead know the truth..
I enjoyed the elements in this book. The chapters are named after Tarot cards and mixed genre thriller/horror. This book is written in now and then times. How Blue became a Tarot reader and also clairvoyance. Great Character development, favourite being the main character Blue. A very detailed story of how she became the woman she is today.
Would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a mystery elements of horror and thriller.
A perfect suspense read.
4 stars⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received this advanced readers copy from @NatGalley in exchange for an honest review. #TheGriefHouse.
Ex -tarot card reader blue attends a week at a grief retreat 'Hope Marsh House' after the passing of her mother. A storm hits and escape is impossible.
A guest goes missing and Blue doesn't know who to believe as they are all hiding secrets...Carrying a secret of her own, will she eventually be able to let it out? And who is responsible?
Everyone is lying.
But the dead know the truth..
I enjoyed the elements in this book. The chapters are named after Tarot cards and mixed genre thriller/horror. This book is written in now and then times. How Blue became a Tarot reader and also clairvoyance. Great Character development, favourite being the main character Blue. A very detailed story of how she became the woman she is today.
Would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a mystery elements of horror and thriller.
A perfect suspense read.
4 stars⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received this advanced readers copy from @NatGalley in exchange for an honest review. #TheGriefHouse.
February 23, 2024
An unusual mix of genres – part psychological thriller, part supernatural / ghost and part horror, really worked for this novel. When Blue attends a Grief retreat, her hosts seem so nice and accommodating, anything to support their guests. The other attendees, Sabine, Jago, and Milton each have their own stories and grief to carry. When a storm comes in, and floods start to threaten, the house becomes somewhat cut off and everyone’s secrets start coming to light.
I really liked the time shifts, showing Blue’s childhood, relationship with her mother and how she ended up at the retreat.
Parts of the book were creepy, eerie, and atmospheric, which keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. It is a little bit of slow burn, but it picks up pace as the plot escalates.
Overall, a good, compelling read that I would recommend.
Thanks you to NetGalley and the publishers Bloomsbury Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for a honest review.
4 stars.
I really liked the time shifts, showing Blue’s childhood, relationship with her mother and how she ended up at the retreat.
Parts of the book were creepy, eerie, and atmospheric, which keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. It is a little bit of slow burn, but it picks up pace as the plot escalates.
Overall, a good, compelling read that I would recommend.
Thanks you to NetGalley and the publishers Bloomsbury Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for a honest review.
4 stars.
November 29, 2023
If you enjoy a mystery thriller with an actual supernatural element, then this will be a pick for you.
The story follows Blue, a child psychic who was put on the tarot reading circuit by her Mother and Step-Father when she was young. She had to grow up way to fast with the things she saw and went through, and had a strange co-dependent relationship with her Mother. Three years after her Mother died, she has booked to go to a Grief Retreat, in an old house in the middle of nowhere. But with a storm coming in, and a house full of strangers, can Blue believe the things she feels and sees, or are they just delusions of her sick mind?
I loved this book, I loved the way it was laid out, the chapter titles, and the few chapters from different perspectives were fun. The characters are deeply flawed and that makes them even more fun. This is a must read, you wont be disappointed.
The story follows Blue, a child psychic who was put on the tarot reading circuit by her Mother and Step-Father when she was young. She had to grow up way to fast with the things she saw and went through, and had a strange co-dependent relationship with her Mother. Three years after her Mother died, she has booked to go to a Grief Retreat, in an old house in the middle of nowhere. But with a storm coming in, and a house full of strangers, can Blue believe the things she feels and sees, or are they just delusions of her sick mind?
I loved this book, I loved the way it was laid out, the chapter titles, and the few chapters from different perspectives were fun. The characters are deeply flawed and that makes them even more fun. This is a must read, you wont be disappointed.
December 27, 2023
Blue arrives at a week long grief retreat in the countryside. However when she arrives only a few other guests have managed to turn up and then one disappears. What secrets does everyone hold and will Blue discover the truth?
This was a well written thriller and definitely created a dark, creepy atmosphere. I enjoy books that combine genres and liked that this had some horror vibes; although I’m not as much of a fan of the supernatural in novels. The story is told in multiple timelines and sometimes felt slightly choppy and confusing. I found that although it was a good mystery, I was never gripped with the storyline and found it a bit drawn out. Overall this is an intriguing read and will be great for those who enjoy thrillers and supernatural stories. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this copy in return for an honest review.
This was a well written thriller and definitely created a dark, creepy atmosphere. I enjoy books that combine genres and liked that this had some horror vibes; although I’m not as much of a fan of the supernatural in novels. The story is told in multiple timelines and sometimes felt slightly choppy and confusing. I found that although it was a good mystery, I was never gripped with the storyline and found it a bit drawn out. Overall this is an intriguing read and will be great for those who enjoy thrillers and supernatural stories. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this copy in return for an honest review.
January 2, 2024
This is a perfect read for dark stormy nights. Blue has always been special, from her unique eyes to her ability to see what others can’t. Troubled by her childhood spent with a mother who can barely function to the trauma of having to do “psychic readings” Blue is a damaged adult unable to function in the world. 3 years after her mothers death she checks into Hope House for a retreat specifically dealing with grief. As the storm floods rise, preventing the guests from leaving Blue learns the truth behind Hope House and knows that not all the occupants will make it through the night.
This was a great fast paced read that shifted through different perspectives until all the threads combine in the final scenes. From the dark brooding scenery to the claustrophobic house the sense of fear is real.
Thanks to #netgalley for the advance copy.
This was a great fast paced read that shifted through different perspectives until all the threads combine in the final scenes. From the dark brooding scenery to the claustrophobic house the sense of fear is real.
Thanks to #netgalley for the advance copy.
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