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The Quiet Stillness of Empty Houses
Theodora Corvus can hear the whispers of her crumbling family home. She can hear the whispers of Kingsward Manor, her place of employment. She sees the watchers by the lake, black-eyed and waiting. But Broken Oak is silent. Broken Oak is empty.
When Theodora takes the job as governess to young Ottoline Thorne, she leaves behind her beloved grandmother and the decaying ruins of her childhood home to travel far north to Broken Oak Manor. There, she finds a house filled with secrets. Under the stern eye of the foreboding housekeeper, Theodora quickly navigates the dark and winding corridors of Broken Oak, only to find herself irrevocably drawn to the mysterious lord of the manor. But someone walks the hallways late after nightfall, their footsteps leading to the attic. The only place in the sprawling house that does not remain silent.
As her scandalous feelings for Cassias Thorne grow, Theodora fights to unearth the secrets of Broken Oak. Who wanders the house at night? Where is the Lady of the manor? What lies behind the attic door high up under the eaves of the house?
"Where is Lady Thorne, Cassias? Where is your wife?"
When Theodora takes the job as governess to young Ottoline Thorne, she leaves behind her beloved grandmother and the decaying ruins of her childhood home to travel far north to Broken Oak Manor. There, she finds a house filled with secrets. Under the stern eye of the foreboding housekeeper, Theodora quickly navigates the dark and winding corridors of Broken Oak, only to find herself irrevocably drawn to the mysterious lord of the manor. But someone walks the hallways late after nightfall, their footsteps leading to the attic. The only place in the sprawling house that does not remain silent.
As her scandalous feelings for Cassias Thorne grow, Theodora fights to unearth the secrets of Broken Oak. Who wanders the house at night? Where is the Lady of the manor? What lies behind the attic door high up under the eaves of the house?
"Where is Lady Thorne, Cassias? Where is your wife?"
224 pages, Hardcover
First published May 15, 2023
10 people are currently reading
1245 people want to read
About the author
L.V. Russell
8 books133 followersLydia grew up on a farm deep in the Dorset countryside alongside her three elder brothers, using the fields and woodland as their playground.
As an adult with two young children, she has used the memories of the wild woods of her youth to write The Wicked Woods Chronicles
A tale of lost sisters, whispering trees, and dark romance.
oh, the woods are dark and wicked...
As an adult with two young children, she has used the memories of the wild woods of her youth to write The Wicked Woods Chronicles
A tale of lost sisters, whispering trees, and dark romance.
oh, the woods are dark and wicked...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 268 reviews
July 15, 2023
In a Nutshell: A Gothic historical fiction. Had great potential; fulfilled only a part of it. The ending elevated my experience somewhat.
Story Synopsis:
Bookish Yays:
😍 The ending. I had guessed a part of it, but didn't see many things coming. The execution could have been better, but the idea was still good. Do note that the ending is similar to that of a famous Gothic horror movie of recent years, the name of which is mentioned in several other reviews. If you want to be surprised, don’t read any other review and go into the book blind.
😍 The scenic descriptions, right from the appearance of the houses to the spectres at the lake, are wonderfully written.
😍 At 194 pages, this is a short and quick read.
😍 Ottoline's character was the most interesting and well-sketched. She felt like her age, though in many ways, she was not like a typical child her age due to her situation.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
😐 A great part of the story is reminiscent of the classic Charlotte Brontë work, ‘Jane Eyre’. The house, the noises in the attic, the orphaned governess, the wilful but adorable child, the housekeeper, the problematic house owner... It went so much into Jane Eyre mode that I fell into a comfort zone, assuming that I knew how things would proceed. When the final quarter went a different way, I was pleasantly surprised. So the ending worked well, but the rest created strong feelings of déjà vu.
😐 I liked how Theodora’s surname was linked to the corvid family, who make plenty of appearances in the plot. I wish they had been utilised more. Gothic and crows work so well together as a concept, and the cover also promised more of the birds.
😐 Staying true to the Gothic genre, we get not one but three creepy houses, though not at the same time. The houses and grounds were used to create a nice, eerie atmosphere. At the same time, the book could have been so much creepier, what with such a house and the porcelain doll and the mysterious noises and the night wanderer. But somehow, the spooks aren't fully utilised. I barely even flinched at any of the supposedly scary scenes.
Bookish Nays:
😣 This should either have been a short story (cutting out all the fluff such as the events that happened at Kingsward Manor – barely relevant to the main plot) or a longer novel with all details sketched in to avoid the logical jumps in the flow. At this length, it's neither here nor there. As such, we get some details that are irrelevant, and some relevant details are missing. This also creates several plot holes.
😣 The character development is flat. What we see on the page is what we get. There is no depth at all, which leads to a disconnect with almost everyone in the story.
😣 Many important scenes feel rushed. I'd have preferred the novel to focus more on the creepy elements than on general conversations and the romance. Moreover, several key things occur off the page. The focus of the novel should have stayed on its core theme.
😣 The romance was neither believable nor acceptable. It was too instant, and unlike in Jane Eyre, awkwardly guilt-free, especially considering that both parties knew about one of them being married. The ending explains this partly, but it is still not convincing.
😣 Which year is it set in? I always like to know the era so that I can place the stories better in my head. But this detail is nowhere to be found.
😣 As the plot is still clearly historical, it is safe to say that the dialogues and Theodora’s behaviour aren’t authentic to the era. (And please, slapping your employer just because he greeted you without your noticing his arrival is plain weird, regardless of the era!)
😣 Minor complaint: The spelling of the main lead’s name was very distracting to my eyes. Isn’t it always ‘Cassius’ and not ‘Cassias’? I couldn’t find any reference to ‘Cassias’ as being an acceptable alternative spelling.
All in all, this story had plenty of potential, but the writing let it down. Had all the plot holes been sealed and the story streamlined, this could have been an impactful indie read. But in its current form, it provides an average experience despite that stunning plot twist towards the end.
2.5 stars. (with the 0.5 being added solely for the ending.)
My thanks to Quill and Crow Publishing House and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Quiet Stillness of Empty Houses”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
Story Synopsis:
Theodora Corvus has stayed in her crumbling family home since years with only her grandmother for company. But after she loses her job as governess at Kingsward Manor, her grandmother finds her a similar position in the distant Broken Oak manor.
As governess to eight-year-old Ottoline - daughter of the enigmatic Lord Cassias Thorne, Theodora finds herself in a house that has many hidden secrets and lurking shadows. The biggest mystery seems to be the location of Lady Thorne, who is said to be away at the coast. If so, who is wandering through the house at night and making all those noises?
The story comes to us in the limited third person perspective of Theodora.
Bookish Yays:
😍 The ending. I had guessed a part of it, but didn't see many things coming. The execution could have been better, but the idea was still good. Do note that the ending is similar to that of a famous Gothic horror movie of recent years, the name of which is mentioned in several other reviews. If you want to be surprised, don’t read any other review and go into the book blind.
😍 The scenic descriptions, right from the appearance of the houses to the spectres at the lake, are wonderfully written.
😍 At 194 pages, this is a short and quick read.
😍 Ottoline's character was the most interesting and well-sketched. She felt like her age, though in many ways, she was not like a typical child her age due to her situation.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
😐 A great part of the story is reminiscent of the classic Charlotte Brontë work, ‘Jane Eyre’. The house, the noises in the attic, the orphaned governess, the wilful but adorable child, the housekeeper, the problematic house owner... It went so much into Jane Eyre mode that I fell into a comfort zone, assuming that I knew how things would proceed. When the final quarter went a different way, I was pleasantly surprised. So the ending worked well, but the rest created strong feelings of déjà vu.
😐 I liked how Theodora’s surname was linked to the corvid family, who make plenty of appearances in the plot. I wish they had been utilised more. Gothic and crows work so well together as a concept, and the cover also promised more of the birds.
😐 Staying true to the Gothic genre, we get not one but three creepy houses, though not at the same time. The houses and grounds were used to create a nice, eerie atmosphere. At the same time, the book could have been so much creepier, what with such a house and the porcelain doll and the mysterious noises and the night wanderer. But somehow, the spooks aren't fully utilised. I barely even flinched at any of the supposedly scary scenes.
Bookish Nays:
😣 This should either have been a short story (cutting out all the fluff such as the events that happened at Kingsward Manor – barely relevant to the main plot) or a longer novel with all details sketched in to avoid the logical jumps in the flow. At this length, it's neither here nor there. As such, we get some details that are irrelevant, and some relevant details are missing. This also creates several plot holes.
😣 The character development is flat. What we see on the page is what we get. There is no depth at all, which leads to a disconnect with almost everyone in the story.
😣 Many important scenes feel rushed. I'd have preferred the novel to focus more on the creepy elements than on general conversations and the romance. Moreover, several key things occur off the page. The focus of the novel should have stayed on its core theme.
😣 The romance was neither believable nor acceptable. It was too instant, and unlike in Jane Eyre, awkwardly guilt-free, especially considering that both parties knew about one of them being married. The ending explains this partly, but it is still not convincing.
😣 Which year is it set in? I always like to know the era so that I can place the stories better in my head. But this detail is nowhere to be found.
😣 As the plot is still clearly historical, it is safe to say that the dialogues and Theodora’s behaviour aren’t authentic to the era. (And please, slapping your employer just because he greeted you without your noticing his arrival is plain weird, regardless of the era!)
😣 Minor complaint: The spelling of the main lead’s name was very distracting to my eyes. Isn’t it always ‘Cassius’ and not ‘Cassias’? I couldn’t find any reference to ‘Cassias’ as being an acceptable alternative spelling.
All in all, this story had plenty of potential, but the writing let it down. Had all the plot holes been sealed and the story streamlined, this could have been an impactful indie read. But in its current form, it provides an average experience despite that stunning plot twist towards the end.
2.5 stars. (with the 0.5 being added solely for the ending.)
My thanks to Quill and Crow Publishing House and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Quiet Stillness of Empty Houses”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
March 20, 2023
4.5⭐️ excellent read. Theodore and Cassias make for an excellent romantic match in what is a beautifully written, haunting tale that left such an impression upon me. The world building and character description is second to none, and this really is, in my opinion, the strength of the book. I did, However, find the plot somewhat predictable, but this did not diminish my enjoyment of this book. I received an advance review copy for free from booksirens.com, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 30, 2025
Full length review, soon!
May 15, 2023
This book is such a beautiful blend of gothic horror, mystery and romance. I adored every minute reading it! An old mansion, a haunted lord that walks its halls and a breathtaking romance all weaved together. The characters and story drew me in. I loved the ghostly atmosphere, as well as the light humor. The mystery that slowly unfolded kept me guessing.
The ending was so satisfying, I enjoyed how it all came together. I absolutely loved reading it.
The ending was so satisfying, I enjoyed how it all came together. I absolutely loved reading it.
September 15, 2025
Did I not call this!!! The hints are subtle but they are there. L.V. Russell’s writing is so lush. She so effortlessly brought such an eerie yet beautiful scenery to the mind. The romance is subtle yet ABSOLUTELY captivating. The yearning and angst I felt with our female and male protagonist was exactly the type of romance I enjoy reading. 5 stars because books like these I feel written just for me. If you enjoyed The Cruel Dark pick this one up!!
May 30, 2023
Rating: 3.25 stars
Lovers of the gothic genre, I believe you may want to give The quiet stillness of empty houses a chance.
Most of the elements presented in this book are pretty well balanced. The romance does take up an important portion of the story and, even though I found it to be a bit too modern and not entirely true to the period, it was enjoyable. Whatsmore, the relationship between Theodora and Cassias is profoundly romantic and passionate, so you will probably be satisfied in that department.
As for the horror aspect, I must admit I was pretty pleased. I love when a book manages to give me literal goosebumps and this book did that twice. The mysterious footsteps and a certain porcelain doll might give you a fright.
In regards to the gothic atmosphere, it was positively achieved. The descriptions of the house, the constant eeriness, the secretive nature of its residents, it all added up to the vibes I was hoping to find in a book such as this.
Finally, the reveal and subsequent plot twist were so well handled I couldn’t believe I hadn’t figured the mystery by myself. A couple of hints were given throughout the story and I failed to pick up on them and perhaps that’s why I was so shocked. Nonetheless, it was the perfect twist for this story and I was more than pleased with the ending.
There are a few things however I wasn’t thrilled about. One being the fact I didn’t enjoy the first few chapters. I could’ve easily done without them. Second, the way Theodora behaved was too “unconventional” for my taste, especially considering the period this book is supposed to be set in. Lastly, the manner in which the romance was handled also rubbed me the wrong way. The repetitive use of their names when addressing each other made the dialogues feel very unnatural, at least to me.
Still, I had an enjoyable time reading this gothic story about a governess that finds love in a place where darkness and loneliness is all there is, a young girl desperate to love and be loved and a man tormented by the horrible truth hidden inside the attic of his grand manor.
-
Amantes del género gótico, creo que van a querer darle una oportunidad a The quiet stillness of empty houses.
La mayoría de los elementos presentados en este libro están bien balanceados. El romance sí consume una parte considerable de la historia, y aunque lo encontré muy moderno y no propio de la época, fue disfrutable. Lo que es más, la relación entre Theodora y Cassias es profundamente romántica y apasionada, así que probablemente queden satisfechos en ese departamento.
En cuanto al aspecto de terror, debo admitir que me gustó bastante. Me encanta cuando un libro me da escalofríos y este lo hizo dos veces. Los pasos misteriosos y una cierta muñeca de porcelana puede que les den un susto.
Respecto a la atmósfera gótica, fue positivamente lograda. Las descripciones de la casa, la sensación constante de extrañeza, el secretismo inherente de sus residentes, todo sumó a las vibes que estaba esperando encontrar en un libro como este.
Finalmente, la revelación y subsiguiente giro en la trama, fueron tan bien manejados que no podía creer que no había descifrado el misterio por mí misma. Algunas pistas fueron entregadas a lo largo de la historia y fallé miserablemente en notarlas, y es quizás por eso que me sorprendió tanto el giro. Dicho eso, fue el toque perfecto para esta historia y no podría estar más satisfecha con el final.
Hubo, sin embargo, algunas cosas que no me convencieron del todo. La primera siendo los primeros capítulos. No los disfruté y podría vivir tranquilamente sin ellos. En segundo lugar, la forma muy poco convencional de comportarse de la protagonista fue mucho para mi gusto, especialmente considerando la época en que el libro está supuestamente ambientado. Por último, la forma en que el romance fue manejado también me hizo ruido. El uso repetitivo de sus nombres al dirigirse entre ellos hizo que los diálogos se sintieran muy poco naturales, al menos para mí.
A pesar de lo mencionado, la lectura de esta historia gótica me resultó satisfactoria. Una institutriz que encuentra el amor en un lugar donde solo existe oscuridad y soledad, una niña desesperada por recibir y dar amor, y un hombre atormentado por la horrible verdad oculta en el ático de su mansión.
Lovers of the gothic genre, I believe you may want to give The quiet stillness of empty houses a chance.
Most of the elements presented in this book are pretty well balanced. The romance does take up an important portion of the story and, even though I found it to be a bit too modern and not entirely true to the period, it was enjoyable. Whatsmore, the relationship between Theodora and Cassias is profoundly romantic and passionate, so you will probably be satisfied in that department.
As for the horror aspect, I must admit I was pretty pleased. I love when a book manages to give me literal goosebumps and this book did that twice. The mysterious footsteps and a certain porcelain doll might give you a fright.
In regards to the gothic atmosphere, it was positively achieved. The descriptions of the house, the constant eeriness, the secretive nature of its residents, it all added up to the vibes I was hoping to find in a book such as this.
Finally, the reveal and subsequent plot twist were so well handled I couldn’t believe I hadn’t figured the mystery by myself. A couple of hints were given throughout the story and I failed to pick up on them and perhaps that’s why I was so shocked. Nonetheless, it was the perfect twist for this story and I was more than pleased with the ending.
There are a few things however I wasn’t thrilled about. One being the fact I didn’t enjoy the first few chapters. I could’ve easily done without them. Second, the way Theodora behaved was too “unconventional” for my taste, especially considering the period this book is supposed to be set in. Lastly, the manner in which the romance was handled also rubbed me the wrong way. The repetitive use of their names when addressing each other made the dialogues feel very unnatural, at least to me.
Still, I had an enjoyable time reading this gothic story about a governess that finds love in a place where darkness and loneliness is all there is, a young girl desperate to love and be loved and a man tormented by the horrible truth hidden inside the attic of his grand manor.
-
Amantes del género gótico, creo que van a querer darle una oportunidad a The quiet stillness of empty houses.
La mayoría de los elementos presentados en este libro están bien balanceados. El romance sí consume una parte considerable de la historia, y aunque lo encontré muy moderno y no propio de la época, fue disfrutable. Lo que es más, la relación entre Theodora y Cassias es profundamente romántica y apasionada, así que probablemente queden satisfechos en ese departamento.
En cuanto al aspecto de terror, debo admitir que me gustó bastante. Me encanta cuando un libro me da escalofríos y este lo hizo dos veces. Los pasos misteriosos y una cierta muñeca de porcelana puede que les den un susto.
Respecto a la atmósfera gótica, fue positivamente lograda. Las descripciones de la casa, la sensación constante de extrañeza, el secretismo inherente de sus residentes, todo sumó a las vibes que estaba esperando encontrar en un libro como este.
Finalmente, la revelación y subsiguiente giro en la trama, fueron tan bien manejados que no podía creer que no había descifrado el misterio por mí misma. Algunas pistas fueron entregadas a lo largo de la historia y fallé miserablemente en notarlas, y es quizás por eso que me sorprendió tanto el giro. Dicho eso, fue el toque perfecto para esta historia y no podría estar más satisfecha con el final.
Hubo, sin embargo, algunas cosas que no me convencieron del todo. La primera siendo los primeros capítulos. No los disfruté y podría vivir tranquilamente sin ellos. En segundo lugar, la forma muy poco convencional de comportarse de la protagonista fue mucho para mi gusto, especialmente considerando la época en que el libro está supuestamente ambientado. Por último, la forma en que el romance fue manejado también me hizo ruido. El uso repetitivo de sus nombres al dirigirse entre ellos hizo que los diálogos se sintieran muy poco naturales, al menos para mí.
A pesar de lo mencionado, la lectura de esta historia gótica me resultó satisfactoria. Una institutriz que encuentra el amor en un lugar donde solo existe oscuridad y soledad, una niña desesperada por recibir y dar amor, y un hombre atormentado por la horrible verdad oculta en el ático de su mansión.
August 10, 2023
4.5 rounded up to 5.
When Theodora takes the job as governess to young Ottoline Thorne, she leaves behind her beloved grandmother and the decaying ruins of her childhood home to travel far north to Broken Oak Manor. There, she finds a house filled with secrets. Under the stern eye of the foreboding housekeeper, Theodora quickly navigates the dark and winding corridors of Broken Oak, only to find herself irrevocably drawn to the mysterious lord of the manor. But someone walks the hallways late after nightfall, their footsteps leading to the attic. The only place in the sprawling house that does not remain silent. As her scandalous feelings for Cassias Thorne grow, Theodora fights to unearth the secrets of Broken Oak. Who wanders the house at night? Where is the Lady of the manor? What lies behind the attic door high up under the eaves of the house?
Ooooohhh this was such a good read! Filled with gothic atmosphere, spooky mystery and forbidden romance this book ticked all the boxes for me. It gave me complete The Woman in Black/The Others vibes with its historical/ghostly setting.
I adored Russell’s characterisation of the obstinate, headstrong Theodora and the broody, sensitive Cassias Thorne and was enthralled watching their love for each other blossom. I was pleasantly surprised with this one and the big twist that I actually didn’t see coming, but when I did, I kicked myself at all the little nuggets of evidence I missed. I was just so caught up in the storyline and atmospheric writing and enjoying the book too much to look for them!
When Theodora takes the job as governess to young Ottoline Thorne, she leaves behind her beloved grandmother and the decaying ruins of her childhood home to travel far north to Broken Oak Manor. There, she finds a house filled with secrets. Under the stern eye of the foreboding housekeeper, Theodora quickly navigates the dark and winding corridors of Broken Oak, only to find herself irrevocably drawn to the mysterious lord of the manor. But someone walks the hallways late after nightfall, their footsteps leading to the attic. The only place in the sprawling house that does not remain silent. As her scandalous feelings for Cassias Thorne grow, Theodora fights to unearth the secrets of Broken Oak. Who wanders the house at night? Where is the Lady of the manor? What lies behind the attic door high up under the eaves of the house?
Ooooohhh this was such a good read! Filled with gothic atmosphere, spooky mystery and forbidden romance this book ticked all the boxes for me. It gave me complete The Woman in Black/The Others vibes with its historical/ghostly setting.
I adored Russell’s characterisation of the obstinate, headstrong Theodora and the broody, sensitive Cassias Thorne and was enthralled watching their love for each other blossom. I was pleasantly surprised with this one and the big twist that I actually didn’t see coming, but when I did, I kicked myself at all the little nuggets of evidence I missed. I was just so caught up in the storyline and atmospheric writing and enjoying the book too much to look for them!
February 19, 2023
I had the honor of reading the first draft of this story and quickly fell in love with it. I’m so happy to read it again now in all its polished beauty! Gorgeous writing, intriguing mysteries, swoon-worthy romance—I highly recommend this book!
Contains:
-Sexual Content
-Trauma
Contains:
-Sexual Content
-Trauma
August 14, 2023
Russell always delivers such eloquent, beautiful prose. I think I will always be enchanted by her descriptions. It is lush and lyrical, haunting and poignant.
I also loved that this was a shorter read. For someone (like me) who isn’t a regular gothic horror reader, it was a lovely way to get just enough to suit my craving for something spooky. I have no doubt that fans of gothic romance will find enjoyment in these pages.
As other reviewers have mentioned, the start is a little slow, but the ending was absolutely *chef’s kiss*.
I also loved that this was a shorter read. For someone (like me) who isn’t a regular gothic horror reader, it was a lovely way to get just enough to suit my craving for something spooky. I have no doubt that fans of gothic romance will find enjoyment in these pages.
As other reviewers have mentioned, the start is a little slow, but the ending was absolutely *chef’s kiss*.
June 29, 2023
I love well written gothic stories, where the atmosphere is gray and white, the rain and fog create a mysterious and haunting world. And this story had all of the above, but it also had something extra. It was poetic! I felt like I was reading a beautiful heartbreaking poem. The author's style of writing is magical. It is very poetic and emotional, makes you fall in love with the landscapes and characters. It is a beautifully written story that I loved from the very beginning. I will look for more stories by this author as her writing style is captivating. I highly recommend it!
December 18, 2023
oooh, a fun little gothic tale. It was an interesting mix of mystery and historic storytelling. I didn't mind the romance either. It's a bit of a slower burn with a mystery that kept me guessing. I atmosphere and characters were well done. I enjoyed this one.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
July 5, 2023
I love well written gothic stories, where the atmosphere is gray and white, the rain and fog create a mysterious and haunting world. And this story had all of the above, but it also had something extra. It was poetic! I felt like I was reading a beautiful heartbreaking poem. The author's style of writing is magical. It is very poetic and emotional, makes you fall in love with the landscapes and characters. It is a beautifully written story that I loved from the very beginning. I will look for more stories by this author as her writing style is captivating. I highly recommend it.
Thank you L.V.Russell, Quill and Crow Publishing House and NetGalley for this digital copy!
Thank you L.V.Russell, Quill and Crow Publishing House and NetGalley for this digital copy!
January 17, 2023
I received a free ARC from the publisher for an honest review.
This book is a sweeping, gothic romance filled with ghosts and specters with an ode to Jane Eyre and the work of the Brontë sisters. It was chilling and haunting and the twist at the end was the absolute cherry on top. Truly, a delightful spooky read. 👻
This book is a sweeping, gothic romance filled with ghosts and specters with an ode to Jane Eyre and the work of the Brontë sisters. It was chilling and haunting and the twist at the end was the absolute cherry on top. Truly, a delightful spooky read. 👻
June 30, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Quill & Crow Publishing House for a free copy of this recently published ebook, in exchange for an honest review.
This story began with a lot of potential. It was atmospheric, dark, dreary. I was drawn in by the main character Theodora’s bleak circumstances: her father passing away, her grandmother’s illness, the decaying family home, and out of necessity, taking the position of a governess to a nearby wealthy estate. However, as the story progressed, I found the dialogue between characters abrupt and awkward. The characters were underdeveloped so I didn’t feel sympathetic towards the characters reactions or emotions. Movement from one scene to the next came across as choppy and I was not always clear as to what had just happened.
Fairly early on, there were some big plot holes, and I felt that it had similarities to the movie, The Others, so the plot twist was not a surprise for me.
I did enjoy the theme of finding home and family in the end.
This story began with a lot of potential. It was atmospheric, dark, dreary. I was drawn in by the main character Theodora’s bleak circumstances: her father passing away, her grandmother’s illness, the decaying family home, and out of necessity, taking the position of a governess to a nearby wealthy estate. However, as the story progressed, I found the dialogue between characters abrupt and awkward. The characters were underdeveloped so I didn’t feel sympathetic towards the characters reactions or emotions. Movement from one scene to the next came across as choppy and I was not always clear as to what had just happened.
Fairly early on, there were some big plot holes, and I felt that it had similarities to the movie, The Others, so the plot twist was not a surprise for me.
I did enjoy the theme of finding home and family in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2024
I absolutely love a gothic novel and this one checked all the boxes. I don’t like romance usually but when it involves things that go bump in the night, sign me up.
I thought all the characters in this book were intriguing and had depth. Some of the lines of this story were so beautifully and eloquently written it was like reading poetry. While about half way through I did pick up on what the twist was, it was still executed in an interesting way. But I don’t read gothic for the shock value. I read it for the poise, the haunting, the heart and this novel delivered on all of that.
I thought all the characters in this book were intriguing and had depth. Some of the lines of this story were so beautifully and eloquently written it was like reading poetry. While about half way through I did pick up on what the twist was, it was still executed in an interesting way. But I don’t read gothic for the shock value. I read it for the poise, the haunting, the heart and this novel delivered on all of that.
April 26, 2023
This is the kind of book that not only captures the heart but captures the soul and mind too. Author writes so well. The writing is so gripping, enchanting and intriguing. When I read it, It didn’t feel like reading a book. But reading this book felt like watching a movie. Theodora has a poignant back story. After death of her parents, she was living with her grandmother but one day she decides to take a job as a governess to young Ottoline Thorne. She travels all the way from her decaying ruins of her childhood home to Broken Oak Manor. Though the broken oak was harbouring its own secrets. She must unearth the secrets lies behind the attic door. And figure out the mystery of the lady of the manor.
The book is spellbinding, lyrical, atmospheric and has a gothic realism. It hooks the readers from beginning till the end. And it continue to carry the mysterious vibe with a gothic realism. It’s a historical gothic romance. Loved the bond of Lord Thorne and Theodora. The bond grew over with time. Thank you Netgalley.
The book is spellbinding, lyrical, atmospheric and has a gothic realism. It hooks the readers from beginning till the end. And it continue to carry the mysterious vibe with a gothic realism. It’s a historical gothic romance. Loved the bond of Lord Thorne and Theodora. The bond grew over with time. Thank you Netgalley.
May 12, 2023
If you like to read gothic story with spooky vibes, eerie atmosphere, intriguing mystery and unexpected plot twist then I suggest picking this one up!
I like the writing style and the way it describes the world building really brings out the creepy vibes.
This book is more of a character driven story, where we get to know Theodora and how she tries to figure out the mystery of the manor and the people in it.
I admit I didn’t suspect anything so that HUGE PLOT TWIST near the ending really shocked me! I had all these theories inside my head and I wasn’t even thinking of that possibility so the twist is really unexpected for me.
I want to talk more about it but I don’t want to spoil it to others who haven’t read it yet!!
While I do enjoy the mystery element and the whole vibes of the story, I didn’t completely feel the spark of romance between the two main characters though. Although at the end, I do feel like they've come to an understanding and seem to forge a deeper bond after knowing the full truth.
Overall, this short gothic story is pretty well written. I do enjoy my time reading this book and the twist left me speechless for a long time. I think this book is one I’ll remember for quite a while.
I’m looking forward to read more books from this author in the future!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: Animal death, death of a parent, death
I received an advanced review copy for free from Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I like the writing style and the way it describes the world building really brings out the creepy vibes.
This book is more of a character driven story, where we get to know Theodora and how she tries to figure out the mystery of the manor and the people in it.
I admit I didn’t suspect anything so that HUGE PLOT TWIST near the ending really shocked me! I had all these theories inside my head and I wasn’t even thinking of that possibility so the twist is really unexpected for me.
I want to talk more about it but I don’t want to spoil it to others who haven’t read it yet!!
While I do enjoy the mystery element and the whole vibes of the story, I didn’t completely feel the spark of romance between the two main characters though. Although at the end, I do feel like they've come to an understanding and seem to forge a deeper bond after knowing the full truth.
Overall, this short gothic story is pretty well written. I do enjoy my time reading this book and the twist left me speechless for a long time. I think this book is one I’ll remember for quite a while.
I’m looking forward to read more books from this author in the future!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: Animal death, death of a parent, death
I received an advanced review copy for free from Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 6, 2023
OH MY GOSH THAT ENDING TWIST. When you pick this one up, don’t you dare stop early! The end is the BEST.
Overall, this was a quick read with gorgeous prose and easy to love characters. At first I thought this would be an average read as I was certain the direction the story was going already. But then the twist happened and I realized I had been so cleverly tricked! It definitely raised the rating up a star for me. Just so good!
I highly recommend this for anyone who loves a good Gothic or creepy story. It’s a fast read and very unique.
Thank you to netgalley for the early copy!
Overall, this was a quick read with gorgeous prose and easy to love characters. At first I thought this would be an average read as I was certain the direction the story was going already. But then the twist happened and I realized I had been so cleverly tricked! It definitely raised the rating up a star for me. Just so good!
I highly recommend this for anyone who loves a good Gothic or creepy story. It’s a fast read and very unique.
Thank you to netgalley for the early copy!
May 9, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
A beautifully written, gothic thriller following the story of Theodora. Although I did enjoy the reading experience, the twist was not a shock and I picked up on it before the reveal. The descriptions throughout add so much character to the novel, and enhanced the story.
A beautifully written, gothic thriller following the story of Theodora. Although I did enjoy the reading experience, the twist was not a shock and I picked up on it before the reveal. The descriptions throughout add so much character to the novel, and enhanced the story.
June 11, 2025
Jane Eyre X Rebecca X The Haunting of Bly Manor
Not all ghosts need saving, and some secrets should remain hidden.
THE QUIET STILLNESS OF EMPTY HOUSES is a dark, gothic tale of loss, grief, and longing with an unexpected twist.
Theodora and Cassias are two lonely souls who were meant to meet each other and be what each of them was missing: a home, a warm embrace, a friend...salvation. L.V. Russell's lush prose and exquisite writing skills shine once again in this hauntingly beautiful story.
What I wasn't expecting was THAT ending twist.
Highly recommended!
Not all ghosts need saving, and some secrets should remain hidden.
THE QUIET STILLNESS OF EMPTY HOUSES is a dark, gothic tale of loss, grief, and longing with an unexpected twist.
Theodora and Cassias are two lonely souls who were meant to meet each other and be what each of them was missing: a home, a warm embrace, a friend...salvation. L.V. Russell's lush prose and exquisite writing skills shine once again in this hauntingly beautiful story.
What I wasn't expecting was THAT ending twist.
Highly recommended!
July 13, 2023
I’m not usually a big fan of gothic fiction given that I find the pacing slow, but this flew by for me.
Other than not feeling the romance and the abrupt ending, I found this a very enjoyable read.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
Other than not feeling the romance and the abrupt ending, I found this a very enjoyable read.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
July 21, 2023
A haunting story with the elegant touches you expect and want to see in gothic fiction. I haven't read a lot of gothic fiction, but I know that this one hits the notes!
With creepy houses and sounds in the dead of night, curious crows, and an eerie child with a way about her that isn't quite right.
I enjoyed the mystery, the element of trying to figure out what was going on. And like most gothic horror, once the reveal happens, all the pieces make sense and you want to go back and read it all over from the beginning.
I wanted a touch more horror, and perhaps a bit more between Theodora and Cassias, but otherwise this was very well written and hit all the right notes.
With creepy houses and sounds in the dead of night, curious crows, and an eerie child with a way about her that isn't quite right.
I enjoyed the mystery, the element of trying to figure out what was going on. And like most gothic horror, once the reveal happens, all the pieces make sense and you want to go back and read it all over from the beginning.
I wanted a touch more horror, and perhaps a bit more between Theodora and Cassias, but otherwise this was very well written and hit all the right notes.
June 30, 2023
(Free Netgalley Copy)
This was an absolute Goldilocks book for me, and the first book of its nature to actually hit the notes I was looking for. With elements that called to mind both The Turn of The Screw and Jane Eyre, this mildly spooky tale really threaded the needle and felt like a proper Gothic novel.
I found Theodora to be an interesting protagonist, with her determination and kindness and caring nature. She was nurturing without being irritating to read about, as can be the case in Governess stories, and I found her growing relationship with Cassias to be believable and sweet.
I genuinely enjoyed watching the two of them get to know each other, and it seemed like they were very well-suited to one another. I'm pleased Ottoline got the kind of family she deserved.
The prose was adequate, very well-suited to the kind of story being told. It could have been more elaborate, but truly the book didn't suffer from it, I thought it was just fine as it was. Furthermore, the twist was very well foreshadowed. I think I guessed what was happening about 60% of the way through, and I still found the reveal to be satisfying.
Wholeheartedly recommend anyone looking for a quick Gothic-y read to give this a try, it's perfect to fill any rainy afternoon.
This was an absolute Goldilocks book for me, and the first book of its nature to actually hit the notes I was looking for. With elements that called to mind both The Turn of The Screw and Jane Eyre, this mildly spooky tale really threaded the needle and felt like a proper Gothic novel.
I found Theodora to be an interesting protagonist, with her determination and kindness and caring nature. She was nurturing without being irritating to read about, as can be the case in Governess stories, and I found her growing relationship with Cassias to be believable and sweet.
I genuinely enjoyed watching the two of them get to know each other, and it seemed like they were very well-suited to one another. I'm pleased Ottoline got the kind of family she deserved.
The prose was adequate, very well-suited to the kind of story being told. It could have been more elaborate, but truly the book didn't suffer from it, I thought it was just fine as it was. Furthermore, the twist was very well foreshadowed. I think I guessed what was happening about 60% of the way through, and I still found the reveal to be satisfying.
Wholeheartedly recommend anyone looking for a quick Gothic-y read to give this a try, it's perfect to fill any rainy afternoon.
May 23, 2023
I received an arc of this book through Netgalley, and I promise this review is my own!
This book had so much potential! The synopsis drew me in, and I was so excited for a mysterious gothic story! However, it didn’t deliver for me all the way. Overall, I enjoyed the story, but I felt like I didn’t know enough about the characters. I think this was partially intentional to create an ending that packed a punch, but I wanted to feel more for them, and I didn’t.
I felt like the beginning jumped around a lot, and I wasn’t completely following along. Eventually I started to understand where the story was going, but it took a little while to get there. There is a lot of background about Theodora’s family’s home, her deceased father, and her first governess job.
Then Theodora finally arrives at Thorne Manor as the new governess, and the story truly begins. From her first interactions after her arrival, I could feel that something eerie was going to happen. She forms a quick relationship with the daughter, Ottoline, and I really loved their dynamic. But there was something about Ottoline that was just not quite right, and I was dying to know what it was.
After some time in the house, we meet Cassias Thorne who is even more mysterious than his daughter. Wandering the halls at night and constantly asking about his wife or insisting that she’s at the seaside because she’s unwell, I started to wonder what was really going on with him and his wife. Despite his seclusion and overall creepiness, Theodora is instantly drawn to him, but the romance piece of this book was hard to buy into. Reflecting back on their relationship after reading the ending, it all starts to fall into place, but there was still something missing between the two.
Throughout the book, I was constantly wondering what secrets everyone was hiding and what was really going on in their minds. Even the housekeeper had her moments of mystery. In the end, I will admit that I was totally shocked, and I actually loved the ending! It was the best part of the whole book. I was floored and had to take a quick break to process it all. I think if I went back and reread the book, I would have a newfound appreciation of the way the story was building up to the ending.
I think a lot of people will really love this book, and while I enjoyed it, it didn’t hit all the marks for me.
This book had so much potential! The synopsis drew me in, and I was so excited for a mysterious gothic story! However, it didn’t deliver for me all the way. Overall, I enjoyed the story, but I felt like I didn’t know enough about the characters. I think this was partially intentional to create an ending that packed a punch, but I wanted to feel more for them, and I didn’t.
I felt like the beginning jumped around a lot, and I wasn’t completely following along. Eventually I started to understand where the story was going, but it took a little while to get there. There is a lot of background about Theodora’s family’s home, her deceased father, and her first governess job.
Then Theodora finally arrives at Thorne Manor as the new governess, and the story truly begins. From her first interactions after her arrival, I could feel that something eerie was going to happen. She forms a quick relationship with the daughter, Ottoline, and I really loved their dynamic. But there was something about Ottoline that was just not quite right, and I was dying to know what it was.
After some time in the house, we meet Cassias Thorne who is even more mysterious than his daughter. Wandering the halls at night and constantly asking about his wife or insisting that she’s at the seaside because she’s unwell, I started to wonder what was really going on with him and his wife. Despite his seclusion and overall creepiness, Theodora is instantly drawn to him, but the romance piece of this book was hard to buy into. Reflecting back on their relationship after reading the ending, it all starts to fall into place, but there was still something missing between the two.
Throughout the book, I was constantly wondering what secrets everyone was hiding and what was really going on in their minds. Even the housekeeper had her moments of mystery. In the end, I will admit that I was totally shocked, and I actually loved the ending! It was the best part of the whole book. I was floored and had to take a quick break to process it all. I think if I went back and reread the book, I would have a newfound appreciation of the way the story was building up to the ending.
I think a lot of people will really love this book, and while I enjoyed it, it didn’t hit all the marks for me.
January 10, 2023
L. V. Russell writes a great Gothic romance novel, it had a great concept that I was looking for. It had what I was expecting from a Haunting of Hill House or other books in the Gothic genre. It was really well written and I enjoyed Theodora and the rest of the cast of characters. I'm excited to see where L. V. Russell goes from here as I had a great time with this book.
“It will not last here,” she said. “Ottoline will grow up and have no more need for me; your wife may come home and decide to take charge of Ottoline’s tutoring, and I will be sent on my way.” “That is unlikely!” “That she will come home or send me away?” He paused, flustered. “She did not say when she would return.”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
“It will not last here,” she said. “Ottoline will grow up and have no more need for me; your wife may come home and decide to take charge of Ottoline’s tutoring, and I will be sent on my way.” “That is unlikely!” “That she will come home or send me away?” He paused, flustered. “She did not say when she would return.”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 1, 2023
Theodora grew up in Woodrow house it was raised by her grandma to be a proper lady when she goes up north to be a nanny for eight year old Adaline she thought she knew what to expect but when she arrives at broken oak manor it is anything but the status quo. The Lord of the Manor wants to be called by his first name and he has no instructions on what to teach little Adelaine and tells Theodora she should ask the girl she would know best. The only other worker in the house is the maid who is kind but brusque the noises start the first night she is there an at first she thinks it is Lil Adelén running through the hallways but soon she will learn different it all makes for one spooky story and although I really enjoyed it there were things that were left unexplained like what happened to the coachman after the accident what about the people who stared at her from the lake? Despite that however this is still a solid four star read in one I thoroughly enjoyed and I seen and other reviews where they said the story is predictable but I do think the story is credible enough to stand on its own regardless of whether you figure it out or not you will still want to get to the end. A solid four star read by LV Russell if you love the good Gothic horror story then you’ll definitely love The Quiet Stillness Of Empty Houses I received this book from NetGalley and the author but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
September 8, 2023
The cover attracted me initially, then that rather lovely book blurb. The premise of this book is good, and the writing, wow, at times it was so beautiful it almost hurt to read.
The atmospheric senses in the writing were beautifully handled and caressed my inner editor repeatedly until she fell asleep and made adorable little snoring noises.
Alas, the pace was so slow I fear she would have fallen asleep anyway. It wasn’t until about 60% through the story that things started to move along.
The first 30% of the book, while a nice taste of the authors writing, was kind of pointless and just served to pad an already exceptionally slow burn.
The last 30% was so rushed it did a real disservice to the concept. Things occurred and they didn’t really make sense. The big ‘Ah-hah’ moment lacked punch because it got about three paragraphs of attention.
The twist fell exceptionally flat because I’d guessed it from as soon as Theodora arrived at Broken Oak Manor. I’d hoped for a less obvious twist.
I didn’t really like any of the characters, they felt a bit underwhelming and underdeveloped.
I’d rate this as a generous 2.5 stars, but I’d definitely look at another story by this author. This story just fell short.
*Note: I received an electronic copy via Netgalley*
The atmospheric senses in the writing were beautifully handled and caressed my inner editor repeatedly until she fell asleep and made adorable little snoring noises.
Alas, the pace was so slow I fear she would have fallen asleep anyway. It wasn’t until about 60% through the story that things started to move along.
The first 30% of the book, while a nice taste of the authors writing, was kind of pointless and just served to pad an already exceptionally slow burn.
The last 30% was so rushed it did a real disservice to the concept. Things occurred and they didn’t really make sense. The big ‘Ah-hah’ moment lacked punch because it got about three paragraphs of attention.
The twist fell exceptionally flat because I’d guessed it from as soon as Theodora arrived at Broken Oak Manor. I’d hoped for a less obvious twist.
I didn’t really like any of the characters, they felt a bit underwhelming and underdeveloped.
I’d rate this as a generous 2.5 stars, but I’d definitely look at another story by this author. This story just fell short.
*Note: I received an electronic copy via Netgalley*
May 13, 2023
Whew! I just finished this book and am still on the edge of my seat wanting more. This novel has it all. Spooky homes, intuitive people, gothic descriptions, and doors that won’t open where things can be heard at night. Theodora take a new job as a governess at Broken Oak Manor. With one housekeeper and a Lord she is prepared to do what it takes after realizing the home she will stay at has lots of scary noises and whispers in the night. Creaking sounds in the attic, voices, and her intuitive nature bring us on a journey that will certainly scare even the most fearless. Theodora quickly understands that it is sorrow that brought her there. Hers a well as the homes. The author does an amazing job at keeping the story detailed and written in such as way as to keep the reader excited about what the next page will hold. I absolutely want to end another of L.V. Russell’s books if he has some and if not, I hope that he will soon.
June 23, 2023
This was basically The Others done a little differently. It certainly had the potential to be more entertaining but I was quite bored for most of the book. The ending did have a sort of redeeming quality but overall I was not impressed. Unless I completely missed them, I didn't really pick up an any hints throughout the book as to what was going on. Sometimes that works for the shock factor but I felt it made this difficult to continue reading.
The story was a good concept and with a bit more fleshing out would be wonderful but it fell flat for me.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story was a good concept and with a bit more fleshing out would be wonderful but it fell flat for me.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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