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The Hungry House
For nail biting suspense, characters that leap of the page, and a tender love story read The Hungry House.
When billionaire Frank Armstrong hires gorgeous and spunky university freshman Vicky Howell as his household assistant, it seems like the answer to her prayers.
With delight, Vicky and her mother move into Frank's charming guest cottage. As Vicky's ailing mother's health declines, Frank picks up the tab for her medical bills, trapping them in his web of control.
At her first university class, Vicky meets tall, handsome Paul, and erotic sparks fly, but she's leery because of a high school affair that left her pregnant and heartbroken. Eventually disenchanted with Frank and revolted by his amorous advances, she flees the estate and begins the fiercest battle of her life as she struggles to escape his far-flung influence and shape her own destiny. Paul, influential movie director John Edwards, and her devoted circle of women friends endeavor to support their beloved Vicky in her fight to protect herself and her young son, conceived in an act of violence and born on a day of tragedy. In the final chapters, Frank discovers that Vicky has developed a will of iron.
When billionaire Frank Armstrong hires gorgeous and spunky university freshman Vicky Howell as his household assistant, it seems like the answer to her prayers.
With delight, Vicky and her mother move into Frank's charming guest cottage. As Vicky's ailing mother's health declines, Frank picks up the tab for her medical bills, trapping them in his web of control.
At her first university class, Vicky meets tall, handsome Paul, and erotic sparks fly, but she's leery because of a high school affair that left her pregnant and heartbroken. Eventually disenchanted with Frank and revolted by his amorous advances, she flees the estate and begins the fiercest battle of her life as she struggles to escape his far-flung influence and shape her own destiny. Paul, influential movie director John Edwards, and her devoted circle of women friends endeavor to support their beloved Vicky in her fight to protect herself and her young son, conceived in an act of violence and born on a day of tragedy. In the final chapters, Frank discovers that Vicky has developed a will of iron.
- GenresRomance
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2013
2 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Amelia Barrington
1 book3 followersebook giveaway!! Contact for free copy. Limited Offer.
The Hungry House Availabe Now on Kindle
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Readers are drawn into a world of wealth in the company of gorgeous 18 year old Vicky who is fighting for a better life. It is the penultimate coming-of-age story. She meets the love of her life, has a child out of wedlock, endures the death of a loved one, and faces down the billionaire who's romantically obsessed with her and pursuring her with a vengence. She finds the courage she never knew she possessed and turns tragedy into triumph.
My purpose in writing the hungry house is to provide an absorbing, chilling, tender and inspiring novel for readers who like to curl up with a good book.
The Hungry House Availabe Now on Kindle
On Sale for .99 cents
http://www.amazon.com/Hungry-House-El...
Readers are drawn into a world of wealth in the company of gorgeous 18 year old Vicky who is fighting for a better life. It is the penultimate coming-of-age story. She meets the love of her life, has a child out of wedlock, endures the death of a loved one, and faces down the billionaire who's romantically obsessed with her and pursuring her with a vengence. She finds the courage she never knew she possessed and turns tragedy into triumph.
My purpose in writing the hungry house is to provide an absorbing, chilling, tender and inspiring novel for readers who like to curl up with a good book.
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October 3, 2013FREE today on Amazon US (10/2/2013).
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March 19, 2014
I just finished a marathon reading of The Hungry House by Elizabeth Amelia Barrington. I simply could not put it down unfinished. My attention was engaged from the first word until the last. It is an amazing book.
Beautiful nineteen-year-old Vicky Howell is given a chance to help her ill mother by taking a job as an assistant to Frank Armstrong, a billionaire in Portland, Oregon. As his assistant, she can still keep her work-study job as a student, attend classes, provide a home for her mother. What can possibly go wrong?
Frank Armstrong, upon seeing Vicky one time when she subbed for her mother in housekeeping, decided he wanted her in his bed and his life. He was used to getting what he wanted but quickly learns that getting Vicky there won't be easy. She is independent, smart, and street-wise. He blatantly uses her mother's ill health and subsequent death to attain his goal. He is not known for his ability to understand NO.
When Vicky's mother dies, Vicky heads into a tailspin of depression. She pulls away from her friends and her life. She loses her Faith. Her friends: Margaret, the housekeeper; Paul, her boyfriend; and even John Edwards, a film producer are concerned as to what will happen to Vicky now. Rightly so. Frank uses her grief to isolate her under the guise of protection. He cocoons her and takes care of her. She buys into his plan and thinks he is the only one who really cares that she is grieving and shuts herself away from everyone except Margaret. She begins to be more and more like Frank.
Eventually Frank loses patience and gives a party to cheer her up. While at the party, he drugs her and rapes her resulting in pregnancy. What is she going to do? Who will believe a penniless girl over a billionaire? How can she prove anything when she doesn't remember? Will anything good come out of this mess she has made of her life?
Beautiful nineteen-year-old Vicky Howell is given a chance to help her ill mother by taking a job as an assistant to Frank Armstrong, a billionaire in Portland, Oregon. As his assistant, she can still keep her work-study job as a student, attend classes, provide a home for her mother. What can possibly go wrong?
Frank Armstrong, upon seeing Vicky one time when she subbed for her mother in housekeeping, decided he wanted her in his bed and his life. He was used to getting what he wanted but quickly learns that getting Vicky there won't be easy. She is independent, smart, and street-wise. He blatantly uses her mother's ill health and subsequent death to attain his goal. He is not known for his ability to understand NO.
When Vicky's mother dies, Vicky heads into a tailspin of depression. She pulls away from her friends and her life. She loses her Faith. Her friends: Margaret, the housekeeper; Paul, her boyfriend; and even John Edwards, a film producer are concerned as to what will happen to Vicky now. Rightly so. Frank uses her grief to isolate her under the guise of protection. He cocoons her and takes care of her. She buys into his plan and thinks he is the only one who really cares that she is grieving and shuts herself away from everyone except Margaret. She begins to be more and more like Frank.
Eventually Frank loses patience and gives a party to cheer her up. While at the party, he drugs her and rapes her resulting in pregnancy. What is she going to do? Who will believe a penniless girl over a billionaire? How can she prove anything when she doesn't remember? Will anything good come out of this mess she has made of her life?
February 2, 2014
The Hungry House tells a story about young girl Vicky Howell. Because of her mother's illness she starts to work as an assistant for wealthy Frank Armstrong, who right from the start develops unhealthy interest in her.
I don't usually read romance novels but I have enjoyed this one. The characters were captivating enough and the plot, though sometimes predictable, kept me interested. Frank was a creep from start to finish and he's certainly the most memorable character.
I wish that some plot twists were more original so I wouldn't sense them for miles away.
It was a good debut book and I think with time Elizabeth Amelia Barrington will only improve her style.
Thanks to the author for sending me free copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
I don't usually read romance novels but I have enjoyed this one. The characters were captivating enough and the plot, though sometimes predictable, kept me interested. Frank was a creep from start to finish and he's certainly the most memorable character.
I wish that some plot twists were more original so I wouldn't sense them for miles away.
It was a good debut book and I think with time Elizabeth Amelia Barrington will only improve her style.
Thanks to the author for sending me free copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2013
The Hungry House by Elizabeth Amelia Barrington is an intriguing work of tragedy drama that abounds with classical themes yet proves to be a remarkably unpredictable page-turner. It is a compelling character story of an overachieving woman who somehow finds ways to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory time and again over a half decade of turmoil. The female protagonist finds herself in a struggle against a relentless opponent who she finally overcomes in a climactic battle laden with psychological overtones.
Vicky Howell is a recent graduate from Benson High School working her way through college alongside her mother Liz, a caretaker for a wealthy suburbanite family. The novel is reminiscent of Jane Eyre with a dark twist as Vicky overcomes numerous obstacles on her way to success. Her employer, Frank Armstrong, is smitten by Vicky but seems content to love her from a distance though closely monitoring her progress. She makes a friend from a potential adversary in the senior overseer, Margaret Black, and has a close-knit support group of friends led by Betts Harrington who are there through thick and thin. It is the specter of death that provides the overcast as her mother is diagnosed with a malignant tumor. It sets off a chain of events that anticipate the tempest as the conflicts unfold.
Frank’s Mr. Rochester persona morphs into Max Cady as his benevolence fails to win Vicky’s heart. He provides medical assistance to Liz, invites Vicky to lavish dinners and introduces her to one of her favorite Hollywood producers to no avail. Instead she focuses her attention on Paul Olson, an average guy on a losing streak whose ex-girlfriend throws a drink in his face upon spotting the new couple in a restaurant. A romantic interlude proves symbolic as Vicky and Paul strip down for action though Vicky balks at the last second. It comes as an epiphany for the audience as we realize that she will forever frustrate friends and loved ones with her last-minute procrastination. We stand behind her alongside her confederates, hoping that somehow she will seize the day and bring us to the happy ending just around the corner.
Vicky’s internal struggle is what makes Barrington’s storyline tick. Once again we see a major heel turn as producer John Edwards and his henchman Matt Silverstein take her side as Frank begins a campaign to force Vicky into his embrace. Again there is a symbolic episode as Edwards’ new project, The Estate, is based on the screenplay of Portlandia which features a treacherous female antagonist. This portends the melodrama ahead as not only Frank becomes a vindictive enemy, but Vicky’s chronic self-deception is also revealed. In an attempt to help Vicky overcome depression, Frank sends Margaret on vacation to Hawaii as he once again showers Vicky with extravagant gratuities. Rejected anew, he desperately turns to Rohypnol as a last resort to achieve a hollow victory.
The incident sets off the final conflict and the tragic climax as Vicky becomes pregnant yet chooses Paul over Frank in deciding to give birth. John Edwards becomes an enabler in providing material support for Vicky during her legal battles with Frank over restraining orders and paternal rights. Yet it is those around her who suffer most as Paul and her son Alex are greatly impacted by Frank’s crusade to conquer Vicky’s soul. He finally crosses the point of no return in a violent confrontation that brings the tragedy to its tumultuous climax.
For those seeking a romantic drama with an edgy storyline and a delightfully unpredictable series of plot twists, The Hungry House by Elizabeth Amelia Barrington is one you won’t want to miss.
Vicky Howell is a recent graduate from Benson High School working her way through college alongside her mother Liz, a caretaker for a wealthy suburbanite family. The novel is reminiscent of Jane Eyre with a dark twist as Vicky overcomes numerous obstacles on her way to success. Her employer, Frank Armstrong, is smitten by Vicky but seems content to love her from a distance though closely monitoring her progress. She makes a friend from a potential adversary in the senior overseer, Margaret Black, and has a close-knit support group of friends led by Betts Harrington who are there through thick and thin. It is the specter of death that provides the overcast as her mother is diagnosed with a malignant tumor. It sets off a chain of events that anticipate the tempest as the conflicts unfold.
Frank’s Mr. Rochester persona morphs into Max Cady as his benevolence fails to win Vicky’s heart. He provides medical assistance to Liz, invites Vicky to lavish dinners and introduces her to one of her favorite Hollywood producers to no avail. Instead she focuses her attention on Paul Olson, an average guy on a losing streak whose ex-girlfriend throws a drink in his face upon spotting the new couple in a restaurant. A romantic interlude proves symbolic as Vicky and Paul strip down for action though Vicky balks at the last second. It comes as an epiphany for the audience as we realize that she will forever frustrate friends and loved ones with her last-minute procrastination. We stand behind her alongside her confederates, hoping that somehow she will seize the day and bring us to the happy ending just around the corner.
Vicky’s internal struggle is what makes Barrington’s storyline tick. Once again we see a major heel turn as producer John Edwards and his henchman Matt Silverstein take her side as Frank begins a campaign to force Vicky into his embrace. Again there is a symbolic episode as Edwards’ new project, The Estate, is based on the screenplay of Portlandia which features a treacherous female antagonist. This portends the melodrama ahead as not only Frank becomes a vindictive enemy, but Vicky’s chronic self-deception is also revealed. In an attempt to help Vicky overcome depression, Frank sends Margaret on vacation to Hawaii as he once again showers Vicky with extravagant gratuities. Rejected anew, he desperately turns to Rohypnol as a last resort to achieve a hollow victory.
The incident sets off the final conflict and the tragic climax as Vicky becomes pregnant yet chooses Paul over Frank in deciding to give birth. John Edwards becomes an enabler in providing material support for Vicky during her legal battles with Frank over restraining orders and paternal rights. Yet it is those around her who suffer most as Paul and her son Alex are greatly impacted by Frank’s crusade to conquer Vicky’s soul. He finally crosses the point of no return in a violent confrontation that brings the tragedy to its tumultuous climax.
For those seeking a romantic drama with an edgy storyline and a delightfully unpredictable series of plot twists, The Hungry House by Elizabeth Amelia Barrington is one you won’t want to miss.
April 5, 2014
The Hungry House by Elizabeth Amelia Barrington is in a genre that I wouldn’t normally read. I am so glad I overlooked my normal barriers and sat down to read this fabulous tale. It has taught me a lesson that sometimes it is okay to travel outside your personal box by trying something new.
The primary characters are well developed, and the plot line was intriguing. I did find a few of the plot points to be predictable, but it wasn’t enough to detract from the overall story. The setting was well established by the supporting facts and intricate details related to Portland, which helped to set the scene and create a visual in my head.
The main character, Vicky Howell, was developed in a manner in which I could relate. She faced numerous struggles that began with the prologue, and continuing through to the end of the book. I found myself sympathizing with her situation, and pulling for her in the end. I think the reason I could relate so well was because I have had friends who have faced similar hardships. I have seen similar transformations as they struggle to deal with the losses, and it is painful to witness. I think this was what made her such a realistic character.
My favorite character in the book was the antagonist, Frank. He wasn’t my favorite because I could relate to him, or that I was pulling for him. Rather, he was my favorite because I truly despised him. I think Elizabeth did a wonderful job creating a true villain. The second we are introduced to Frank, and his lascivious nature, I developed a deep hatred for this man and I wanted to see him punished for his crimes.
Overall I enjoyed this book. I would give it 4 out of 5 stars. Don’t let the 4 fool you. I would recommend this book to anyone. I am interested to see what else Elizabeth will have in store for us in future books.
The primary characters are well developed, and the plot line was intriguing. I did find a few of the plot points to be predictable, but it wasn’t enough to detract from the overall story. The setting was well established by the supporting facts and intricate details related to Portland, which helped to set the scene and create a visual in my head.
The main character, Vicky Howell, was developed in a manner in which I could relate. She faced numerous struggles that began with the prologue, and continuing through to the end of the book. I found myself sympathizing with her situation, and pulling for her in the end. I think the reason I could relate so well was because I have had friends who have faced similar hardships. I have seen similar transformations as they struggle to deal with the losses, and it is painful to witness. I think this was what made her such a realistic character.
My favorite character in the book was the antagonist, Frank. He wasn’t my favorite because I could relate to him, or that I was pulling for him. Rather, he was my favorite because I truly despised him. I think Elizabeth did a wonderful job creating a true villain. The second we are introduced to Frank, and his lascivious nature, I developed a deep hatred for this man and I wanted to see him punished for his crimes.
Overall I enjoyed this book. I would give it 4 out of 5 stars. Don’t let the 4 fool you. I would recommend this book to anyone. I am interested to see what else Elizabeth will have in store for us in future books.
February 17, 2014
Vicky Howell a college student with a part time job at the college working for a professor a very busy girl. She is trying to help her mother make ends meet. Vicky's mother has heart disease and it's growing worse every day.
One day as Vicky's mom fell ill Vicky took her mother's place cleaning the mansion of Frank Armstrong. This day would change the coarse Vicky's life forever. After Frank Armstrong first saw Vicky that was it he had to have her. He went about manipulating every thing around Vicky and concerning Vicky from her mother's illness to where they lived and their finances.
When Vicky's mother passes this leaves Vicky opened and vulnerable to Franks manipulation's and as such he kind of takes over her life and secludes her to the mansion. But after Vicky awakens after a party one morning not remembering anything but being sore. A couple of weeks later after feeling sick she goes to the doctor and everything changes for the worse.
It takes the love of a strong man and very powerful friends to help her through this mess. To help her get away from a stalker that knows no bounds.
A very good story line that was kind of told a little bit robotically to me but still good.
One day as Vicky's mom fell ill Vicky took her mother's place cleaning the mansion of Frank Armstrong. This day would change the coarse Vicky's life forever. After Frank Armstrong first saw Vicky that was it he had to have her. He went about manipulating every thing around Vicky and concerning Vicky from her mother's illness to where they lived and their finances.
When Vicky's mother passes this leaves Vicky opened and vulnerable to Franks manipulation's and as such he kind of takes over her life and secludes her to the mansion. But after Vicky awakens after a party one morning not remembering anything but being sore. A couple of weeks later after feeling sick she goes to the doctor and everything changes for the worse.
It takes the love of a strong man and very powerful friends to help her through this mess. To help her get away from a stalker that knows no bounds.
A very good story line that was kind of told a little bit robotically to me but still good.
October 14, 2013
The title and cover of the really drew me to read this book. The starting was brief but scary and the build-up was reminiscent of Frank O'Connor's Man of the House, which really threw me back into some warm joyful memories, where instead of a man (or boy) there is a girl named Vicky. She will do everything she can so that her mother does not have to work cleaning house anymore, even if it means she would have to work for an eccentric rich guy who despite being extremely cautious of his actions had already sent the wrong signal to Vicky, her mother and friends. Vicky is a strong character, sharp, witty and intelligent. She does two odd jobs apart from studying in college and also has a some-what social life and also is advancing into a new relationship.
Moving forward, Vicky has to face some really harsh problems as life only becomes more complicated.
Although the story reminds of many memories, it is unique and definitely not derivative. The plot is also not far-fetched, rather much grounded to reality and therefore very relate-able. The writing simple and brisk.
Moving forward, Vicky has to face some really harsh problems as life only becomes more complicated.
Although the story reminds of many memories, it is unique and definitely not derivative. The plot is also not far-fetched, rather much grounded to reality and therefore very relate-able. The writing simple and brisk.
December 27, 2014
The first 75% was ludicrous, featuring the DUMBEST protagonist, ever. The next 20% wasn't half-bad, though the story stretched the limits of credulity. And then... back to beyond stupid. With little more than ten minutes remaining at the end of the fourth quarter the author had her heroine woman/smarten-the-hell-up but it was too little, too late.
The whole thing, in the final analysis, was just a hot mess. Don't they make editors anymore?! Oh, speaking of editors, as if the tale weren't bad enough, I'm pretty sure Vicky meant to call John PAPA Bear not "PAPER Bear." Seriously, there were so many editorial errors in my free download of this book the cumulative effect resulted in radically enhanced entertainment value. This subject matter should have been interesting terrain to explore. Not this go 'round, however. But she's getting two stars for trying, even if failing, since that's more than most ever do.
The whole thing, in the final analysis, was just a hot mess. Don't they make editors anymore?! Oh, speaking of editors, as if the tale weren't bad enough, I'm pretty sure Vicky meant to call John PAPA Bear not "PAPER Bear." Seriously, there were so many editorial errors in my free download of this book the cumulative effect resulted in radically enhanced entertainment value. This subject matter should have been interesting terrain to explore. Not this go 'round, however. But she's getting two stars for trying, even if failing, since that's more than most ever do.
March 30, 2014
I was sent this in exchange for an honest review. it has taken me longer than usual as I was in a reading slump when I started this. I think for this reason its not a full 5 stars as it took me ages to get into. I really enjoyed this book and following vickys life and her transformation.
When vicky and her mum meet the very wealthy frank they think their life is going to go well for a change but thats not the case!
I love the transformation vicky goes through in this book turning from a quiet vunerable girl to a confident women who would do anything for her family.
This book has a few good twists which keep you on the edge of your seat. I was so nervous in the last quarter wondering what was going to happen.
glad I had the chance to read this
When vicky and her mum meet the very wealthy frank they think their life is going to go well for a change but thats not the case!
I love the transformation vicky goes through in this book turning from a quiet vunerable girl to a confident women who would do anything for her family.
This book has a few good twists which keep you on the edge of your seat. I was so nervous in the last quarter wondering what was going to happen.
glad I had the chance to read this
December 19, 2014
A first, self-published book by an American author.
It's a good story which is, unfortunately spoiled by many mistakes. Ms Barrington should have employed an editor.
It describes a young woman's struggle to avoid a billionaire who is obsessed with her. She carries his baby; her mother dies of cancer; she marries the man she loves.
It's a good story which is, unfortunately spoiled by many mistakes. Ms Barrington should have employed an editor.
It describes a young woman's struggle to avoid a billionaire who is obsessed with her. She carries his baby; her mother dies of cancer; she marries the man she loves.
November 1, 2014
too slow, it does need editing. the story is decent but too repetitive and thus slow. too weak of a plot too much filler.
October 8, 2013
Needs edited.
October 13, 2013
Other than the editing errors it is a good story.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews