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The Family Home
Nothing is as perfect as it seems…
Hattie Gilby has not been back to her family home since the devastating events that took place there years ago. Events that changed Hattie and which continue to haunt her today. But one phone call changes everything.
Now Hattie is going back to her family home to face her brothers, Adam and Luke and to hear the last words of her dying mother.
Imogen Gilby hasn’t spoken a word since the night she was beaten almost to death and her husband was murdered. But now it’s time to reveal the truth about what happened that night and the secrets that almost destroyed her.
Hattie isn’t sure she wants to know the truth. And it seems someone close to them will do anything to make sure the secrets stay hidden forever…
Another chilling read from bestselling author L H Stacey guaranteed to keep you up all night! Perfect for fans of Valerie Keogh, J.A. Baker and Diana Wilkinson.
Hattie Gilby has not been back to her family home since the devastating events that took place there years ago. Events that changed Hattie and which continue to haunt her today. But one phone call changes everything.
Now Hattie is going back to her family home to face her brothers, Adam and Luke and to hear the last words of her dying mother.
Imogen Gilby hasn’t spoken a word since the night she was beaten almost to death and her husband was murdered. But now it’s time to reveal the truth about what happened that night and the secrets that almost destroyed her.
Hattie isn’t sure she wants to know the truth. And it seems someone close to them will do anything to make sure the secrets stay hidden forever…
Another chilling read from bestselling author L H Stacey guaranteed to keep you up all night! Perfect for fans of Valerie Keogh, J.A. Baker and Diana Wilkinson.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 27, 2024
469 people are currently reading
418 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
October 30, 2024
After a bit of a slump .. came this fun thriller! Not only did I not anticipate how it would twist or turn.. I didn’t see the end coming either. I love that in a thriller and enjoyed the quick feel and pace of the story. Definitely worth the read and recommendation!
October 17, 2024
My first time reading British author L.H. Stacey. Overall, The Family Home wasn't a bad story. This was middle of the road for me. Not horrible, not a blockbuster. I would call this more of a mystery than a thriller although it did have some thrills with twists and turns. All of the characters were unlikable.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this ARC.
This review will be shared on Goodreads, Instagram & Netgalley.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this ARC.
This review will be shared on Goodreads, Instagram & Netgalley.
December 1, 2024
The Family Home is the first book I have read by LH Stacy and she is definitely one to watch. It's a fast paced story, and I loved the multi POV and multi timeline. Her writing definitely had me glued to the pages anxious to see where the story went.
There is a lot of grief in this book, and the emotions were palpable. My heart broke for many of the characters.
There is a lot of grief in this book, and the emotions were palpable. My heart broke for many of the characters.
January 1, 2025
I found that this was an easy read with a gripping plot line, however I felt that I was left wanting more. To know more about the past, about lousia and Mary.
But overall a nice quick read
But overall a nice quick read
December 13, 2024
I usually enjoy a book about people going back home and wondering what they're going to find. The beginning chapters of this book really hooked me, with Imogen and what happened to her and her husband.
However, I soon felt lost about what was happening.
I lost interest and got very confused around halfway through. I felt that the characters weren't well developed and the writing was far too descriptive. Descriptive writing would usually make me want to continue, but it took me out of the story. There were not many visuals, so it was hard to stay immersed in it.
The plot went back-and-forth between the present moment and nine years before. The "nine years before" parts are all from Hattie's point of view. I wanted to get to know the characters more, but I found that I just didn't (not even Hattie).
I think the problem is that, for me, they aren't very well created right from the beginning. I wanted to feel for them and root for them but I couldn't.
This is my first book by L.H. Stacey, and I wanted to really enjoy it, but it just wasn't for me. The parts I did understand were predictable (except the beginning, which was gripping). I found the part between Mary and Louisa interesting and I had mixed feelings about Frieda. I was glad of her skills as a nurse and that Louisa was taken to her. Louisa has a difficult backstory. I found much of the book to be very dark and there are difficult subjects: murder, deceit, and complex family relationships. I didn’t like any of the characters.
The relationship between Hattie and Griffin was confusing too, and I didn’t feel the love between them stood out enough. I liked what Sophie was like with her baby son Noah, that was heartwarming. I was enthralled by the added mystery of what Noah and Freida (his grandmother) may have been doing.I found it interesting that Noah was a doctor.
I felt that the last 100 pages or so were more interesting than the rest of the book, as the plot was slightly better.
I really like thrillers and this was not a thriller as such. It was more like a mystery. Even then, I didn't find it mysterious and it was more confusing than anything. I found the novel to be overly long, and it was a struggle to finish. I did as I wanted to know what happened in the end.
Book 1 for Thankfully Reading 2024
2 stars
Thanks to Boldwood Books and L.H. Stacey for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
However, I soon felt lost about what was happening.
I lost interest and got very confused around halfway through. I felt that the characters weren't well developed and the writing was far too descriptive. Descriptive writing would usually make me want to continue, but it took me out of the story. There were not many visuals, so it was hard to stay immersed in it.
The plot went back-and-forth between the present moment and nine years before. The "nine years before" parts are all from Hattie's point of view. I wanted to get to know the characters more, but I found that I just didn't (not even Hattie).
I think the problem is that, for me, they aren't very well created right from the beginning. I wanted to feel for them and root for them but I couldn't.
This is my first book by L.H. Stacey, and I wanted to really enjoy it, but it just wasn't for me. The parts I did understand were predictable (except the beginning, which was gripping). I found the part between Mary and Louisa interesting and I had mixed feelings about Frieda. I was glad of her skills as a nurse and that Louisa was taken to her. Louisa has a difficult backstory. I found much of the book to be very dark and there are difficult subjects: murder, deceit, and complex family relationships. I didn’t like any of the characters.
The relationship between Hattie and Griffin was confusing too, and I didn’t feel the love between them stood out enough. I liked what Sophie was like with her baby son Noah, that was heartwarming. I was enthralled by the added mystery of what Noah and Freida (his grandmother) may have been doing.I found it interesting that Noah was a doctor.
I felt that the last 100 pages or so were more interesting than the rest of the book, as the plot was slightly better.
I really like thrillers and this was not a thriller as such. It was more like a mystery. Even then, I didn't find it mysterious and it was more confusing than anything. I found the novel to be overly long, and it was a struggle to finish. I did as I wanted to know what happened in the end.
Book 1 for Thankfully Reading 2024
2 stars
Thanks to Boldwood Books and L.H. Stacey for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
October 27, 2024
Thank you NetGalley, Boldwood Books and L. h. Stacey for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I appreciated the core of The Family Home—the main storyline and the twists, even if predictable, kept me engaged, and the plot itself had a solid framework.
However, a few aspects just didn’t work for me. The characters lacked depth, making it hard to connect with or root for any of them.
Then, there was the narration; it was overly descriptive, which slowed down the pacing in a way I don't typically enjoy in thrillers. I much prefer a fast-paced, dialogue-driven style that keeps the momentum high.
The ending, unfortunately, felt rushed, with everything wrapped up in a single chapter, only to leave readers with a cliffhanger that missed the mark on suspense and felt more frustrating than intriguing.
Overall, while I’m grateful for the ARC and glad to have discovered L. H. Stacey, this book didn’t fully capture me.
I appreciated the core of The Family Home—the main storyline and the twists, even if predictable, kept me engaged, and the plot itself had a solid framework.
However, a few aspects just didn’t work for me. The characters lacked depth, making it hard to connect with or root for any of them.
Then, there was the narration; it was overly descriptive, which slowed down the pacing in a way I don't typically enjoy in thrillers. I much prefer a fast-paced, dialogue-driven style that keeps the momentum high.
The ending, unfortunately, felt rushed, with everything wrapped up in a single chapter, only to leave readers with a cliffhanger that missed the mark on suspense and felt more frustrating than intriguing.
Overall, while I’m grateful for the ARC and glad to have discovered L. H. Stacey, this book didn’t fully capture me.
October 15, 2024
"The Family Home" by L. HE. Stacey is nicely written family thriller which I would probably describe it more like a drama.
Blurb:
Hattie Gilby has not been back to her family home since the devastating events that took place there years ago. Events that changed Hattie and which continue to haunt her today. But one phone call changes everything.
Now Hattie is going back to her family home to face her brothers, Adam and Luke and to hear the last words of her dying mother.
Imogen Gilby hasn’t spoken a word since the night she was beaten almost to death and her husband was murdered. But now it’s time to reveal the truth about what happened that night and the secrets that almost destroyed her.
Hattie isn’t sure she wants to know the truth. And it seems someone close to them will do anything to make sure the secrets stay hidden forever…
It's a good story but I'm afraid I didn't find it chilling or captivating. Characters were poorly developed and not likeable, lots of loose ends that could be easily sorted and would make a story a bit more interesting. I guessed pretty quickly what was happening so maybe that influenced my review but again we are asked to say what we think and I honestly didn't like the book. Writing was fine therfore I'm giving it a 2 stars. Thanks to #NetGalley for the early copy in exchange for an honest opinion
Blurb:
Hattie Gilby has not been back to her family home since the devastating events that took place there years ago. Events that changed Hattie and which continue to haunt her today. But one phone call changes everything.
Now Hattie is going back to her family home to face her brothers, Adam and Luke and to hear the last words of her dying mother.
Imogen Gilby hasn’t spoken a word since the night she was beaten almost to death and her husband was murdered. But now it’s time to reveal the truth about what happened that night and the secrets that almost destroyed her.
Hattie isn’t sure she wants to know the truth. And it seems someone close to them will do anything to make sure the secrets stay hidden forever…
It's a good story but I'm afraid I didn't find it chilling or captivating. Characters were poorly developed and not likeable, lots of loose ends that could be easily sorted and would make a story a bit more interesting. I guessed pretty quickly what was happening so maybe that influenced my review but again we are asked to say what we think and I honestly didn't like the book. Writing was fine therfore I'm giving it a 2 stars. Thanks to #NetGalley for the early copy in exchange for an honest opinion
December 6, 2024
I don't like giving bad reviews, writing a book is not an easy thing
But this book lacked good editing, it was all over the place. Many scenes didn't make sense and was unreasonable. The characters were undeveloped, unlikable and lacked depth. The plot twist if you can even name it a plot twist was painfully clear way too early in the book.
But this book lacked good editing, it was all over the place. Many scenes didn't make sense and was unreasonable. The characters were undeveloped, unlikable and lacked depth. The plot twist if you can even name it a plot twist was painfully clear way too early in the book.
January 11, 2025
Got to 70% and just cant read any further. Longwinded and repetitive. Sorry
November 30, 2024
Every family and every house has a secret.so the blurb had me hooked. The way of telling the past mixed in between the present hooked me in as I was determined to find put what the big secret meant for today's characters. It was also useful to via the pov see the way the chatacters evolved and their perceptions on events. I loved the way you were taken on the journey with the characters as you and they discovered the truth. I was gripped and drip fed the truth. It was shocking but sadly likely to be a reality. I cared about the chatacters. The pov were limited yo the womsn I would have loved a final pov of the father to tie it all together. It was full of twists and turns. Well developed characters. The plot is about what happened on the night the world changed for ever.
I would highly recommended this to any thriller readers although on some level this has more elements of a mystery.. I waa engrossed. I felt the ending was good but I needed something more. A pwrfect 5 star . Thank you netgallery and publisher and author.
I would highly recommended this to any thriller readers although on some level this has more elements of a mystery.. I waa engrossed. I felt the ending was good but I needed something more. A pwrfect 5 star . Thank you netgallery and publisher and author.
October 21, 2024
Hattie finds herself returning home 9 years after the tragic night that took her father and left her mother close to death. Now close to death Imogen wants to speak with all three of her children. She claims to have secrets to tell but dies before exposing her truths. The siblings embark on a search to learn the truth. What they find changes everything they thought they knew about family and uncovers deadly secrets.
I enjoyed the twists and turns in this story. I did not anticipate how the story ended. All of the characters seemed to lack values. They all seemed to be motivated to help themselves without thinking about the consequences of others.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and author for this ARC.
I enjoyed the twists and turns in this story. I did not anticipate how the story ended. All of the characters seemed to lack values. They all seemed to be motivated to help themselves without thinking about the consequences of others.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and author for this ARC.
November 27, 2024
“The Family Home” is a thriller filled with mystery, family drama and suspense.
I was intrigued by Hattie and her family’s story.
The chapters alternate between present and past (nine years earlier) and there are multiple POVs. This helps to gradually build the story.
I enjoyed the book and read it in one sitting. There were a few plot twists, but it was also a bit predictable. What I did not predict was the ending, but it did not surprise me.
Overall I would recommend this a quick and entertaining read.
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for a digital copy of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I was intrigued by Hattie and her family’s story.
The chapters alternate between present and past (nine years earlier) and there are multiple POVs. This helps to gradually build the story.
I enjoyed the book and read it in one sitting. There were a few plot twists, but it was also a bit predictable. What I did not predict was the ending, but it did not surprise me.
Overall I would recommend this a quick and entertaining read.
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for a digital copy of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 26, 2024
Absolutely loved this book. Did not expect the ending to be like that. Didn’t want to put it down.
September 1, 2025
This was a fun thriller! Loved the multiple POV and timeline. It was fast paced & I did not see the end coming.
December 2, 2024
Hattie hasn’t been home in over nine years. She’s headed home now to hear her Mom’s dying words.
This was an intense thriller. It has some twists and turns. Lots of secrets in this book.
This was an intense thriller. It has some twists and turns. Lots of secrets in this book.
November 28, 2024
Absolutely gripping!
Hattie hasn't returned to the family home since her father was murdered and her mother so badly beaten that she has been unable to say a word since. However, Hattie now needs to face her brothers and hope that her mother will tell them what happened before she dies Hattie wonders if she really wants to know, and it seems that someone else really doesn't want the truth to come out ...
This is a book which grabs the reader from the very beginning and doesn't let go until the very last word. Cleverly written, this one holds onto it's secrets until the very last. Thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish. Definitely an author I'll be watching out for. 5* and my highest recommendation.
Hattie hasn't returned to the family home since her father was murdered and her mother so badly beaten that she has been unable to say a word since. However, Hattie now needs to face her brothers and hope that her mother will tell them what happened before she dies Hattie wonders if she really wants to know, and it seems that someone else really doesn't want the truth to come out ...
This is a book which grabs the reader from the very beginning and doesn't let go until the very last word. Cleverly written, this one holds onto it's secrets until the very last. Thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish. Definitely an author I'll be watching out for. 5* and my highest recommendation.
October 3, 2025
Garbage
October 31, 2024
“The Family Home" is a gripping story of a family’s history laced with dark secrets. L.H. Stacey masterfully writes a story that is both thrilling and suspenseful, and kept me on edge with every twist and turn. As the deception unfolds, the tension builds, revealing the lengths to which a family will go to protect their past. This compelling read explores deep into the complexities of loyalty and betrayal, making it a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers.
November 2, 2024
This book took me much longer than I care to admit to finish because I could not stay engaged with it. To begin with none of the characters were particularly likable which made it hard to feel a connection to any of them, much less care about their fate. Luke came across as a petulant child most of the time, picking a fight with his sister for every little thing. I get it, he's mad that she left, but he could have too. They already had caregivers coming to their mother's house when she wasn't in the hospital and Adam had moved out, there was no reason Luke couldn't have as well. It seemed like he just wanted someone to blame and his sister was a handy target. And then there is Adam, who despite seeming to be the most sensible of the bunch, learns the cold hard truth and decides that not only can he not handle it, but the solution is to burn everything having to do with his parents. Things that could potentially hold more information than when they already knew; information that the police needed to know regardless of how it would make their parents look.
And while at first I held some sympathy for Hattie understanding what a difficult place she was in having to come back to the house her father was murdered in while harboring fears that she may have been inadvertently responsible, the more I got to know about her and the events the happened in the past, the more I started to dislike her. Yes, by all accounts she had lived a somewhat sheltered and privileged life (especially compared to some people), but there is no reason that she should have been just that naive at the age of nineteen. I also kept waiting for her to grow a backbone and stand up to her cousin instead of capitulating to every little thing that she wanted.
In fact, out of everyone in the novel, the one I felt the most sorry for was Sophie as even now, I cannot figure out what her purpose was in the book other than for what happened at the end to happen, and I can think of a much better way that things could have come to light without Sophie never being involved.
Sadly, the characters weren't the only problem I had with this book however. I felt like there was a lot of instances where there was just too much detail coming at me at once. I don't need to know about the inch thick layer of dust on every inch of the house (although why was there that much dust in rooms like the kitchen if Luke was still living there), or about the bookcases filled with encyclopedias (and more dust). Sometimes, less is really more and I think this story would benefit by cutting some of those details out. I also hope that because I read an advanced copy of this book, that the duplicate sentences were edited out before the official publication. One of these instances sticks out even after I finished the book because I thought my kindle was having issues. The passage in its entirety reads:
"Sophie impatiently pulled a small plastic bag out of her pocket, and ran her hand down the front of her jeans. 'Come on, Jasper, at least you could hurry up and do what you need to do for me...' Sophie said as she rolled her eyes and impatiently pulled a small plastic bag out of her pocket, running her hand down the front of her jeans."
Not to mention when Imogen's laptop is discovered, they put it on charge before Hattie leaves, making plans to look at it together when she gets back, only to have her return and Adam has destroyed everything (I'm surprised the laptop even still works considering he damaged the screen) to which he tells her that he put it on charge after she left and then decided to look through it. If it hadn't been charged/used in nine years it would have taken a long time to get enough juice in the battery to power on.
And finally, the ending. By the time we arrived at the "big reveal" I had already pretty much figured out not only what had been going on, but also who murdered Hattie's father. I'm having a little trouble believing the fact that given their current circumstances they were able to over power anyone much less enough to cause harm. But what really got under my skin was the cliff-hanger ending this one had. Not only do I hate cliff-hangers, but do they really expect to get away with it? When the truth of the past has been revealed, and the world is a much different place than it was nine years ago? It just didn't make sense.
That being said, I'm sure there are other people who will read this story and have a much different opinion than I did. So if this sounds like something you would enjoy, I encourage you to take what I've written as my own experience and read it for yourself.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
And while at first I held some sympathy for Hattie understanding what a difficult place she was in having to come back to the house her father was murdered in while harboring fears that she may have been inadvertently responsible, the more I got to know about her and the events the happened in the past, the more I started to dislike her. Yes, by all accounts she had lived a somewhat sheltered and privileged life (especially compared to some people), but there is no reason that she should have been just that naive at the age of nineteen. I also kept waiting for her to grow a backbone and stand up to her cousin instead of capitulating to every little thing that she wanted.
In fact, out of everyone in the novel, the one I felt the most sorry for was Sophie as even now, I cannot figure out what her purpose was in the book other than for what happened at the end to happen, and I can think of a much better way that things could have come to light without Sophie never being involved.
Sadly, the characters weren't the only problem I had with this book however. I felt like there was a lot of instances where there was just too much detail coming at me at once. I don't need to know about the inch thick layer of dust on every inch of the house (although why was there that much dust in rooms like the kitchen if Luke was still living there), or about the bookcases filled with encyclopedias (and more dust). Sometimes, less is really more and I think this story would benefit by cutting some of those details out. I also hope that because I read an advanced copy of this book, that the duplicate sentences were edited out before the official publication. One of these instances sticks out even after I finished the book because I thought my kindle was having issues. The passage in its entirety reads:
"Sophie impatiently pulled a small plastic bag out of her pocket, and ran her hand down the front of her jeans. 'Come on, Jasper, at least you could hurry up and do what you need to do for me...' Sophie said as she rolled her eyes and impatiently pulled a small plastic bag out of her pocket, running her hand down the front of her jeans."
Not to mention when Imogen's laptop is discovered, they put it on charge before Hattie leaves, making plans to look at it together when she gets back, only to have her return and Adam has destroyed everything (I'm surprised the laptop even still works considering he damaged the screen) to which he tells her that he put it on charge after she left and then decided to look through it. If it hadn't been charged/used in nine years it would have taken a long time to get enough juice in the battery to power on.
And finally, the ending. By the time we arrived at the "big reveal" I had already pretty much figured out not only what had been going on, but also who murdered Hattie's father. I'm having a little trouble believing the fact that given their current circumstances they were able to over power anyone much less enough to cause harm. But what really got under my skin was the cliff-hanger ending this one had. Not only do I hate cliff-hangers, but do they really expect to get away with it? When the truth of the past has been revealed, and the world is a much different place than it was nine years ago? It just didn't make sense.
That being said, I'm sure there are other people who will read this story and have a much different opinion than I did. So if this sounds like something you would enjoy, I encourage you to take what I've written as my own experience and read it for yourself.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
November 29, 2024
I was looking for a book with darker edges – and I knew I’d made the right choice when I read the rather stunning prologue as Imogen flees through the garden of her home, hoping to evade pursuit, leaving a scene of horror behind. We then learn that her daughter Hattie has returned to the family home at her mother’s request – she had moved away to distance herself both from her past and the carnage she witnessed (a bloodbath that left her father dead on the kitchen floor, her mother rendered incapable of speech). But now, nine years later and on her deathbed, her mother is speaking again – and apparently wants to share the truth about what happened that night, a mystery that has never been resolved.
Hattie’s brothers, Adam and Luke, unable to forgive her for abandoning them when they were so young, still live in the same Yorkshire village – their father was the vicar, their vicarage home falling into a state of neglect around them – but they need to try to pull together to finally put the past to rest. The story moves between past and present with particular ease – and we discover other key characters. Cousin Louisa is something of an enigma – a friend and ally to Hattie in her younger years, but perhaps not the best role model for her to follow, with secrets in both her past and present. And then there’s neighbour Griffin, once very close to Hattie, always there for her in times of trouble – but now married with a child, his wife understandably suspicious of their connection, and perhaps with some secrets of his own. The characterisation really is excellent – very real people (although none of them particularly likeable) with recognisable family relationships, small details gradually revealed and built on, preconceptions often overturned, suspicions raised about their involvement, with the truth about the events of that fateful night steadily emerging.
It is quite a convoluted story – and that’s not a criticism but a strong positive – and I really had no idea where it was going until events had played out and the many deceptions unfolded. It’s also very atmospheric, filled with tension, everything a bit oppressive at times (and rightly so) – and the story’s pacing is really excellent, edge-of-the-seat storytelling with so many shocks and touches of the wholly unexpected. And there are moments of considerable drama too – that sometimes feel like your nightmares brought to life.
Was it a book I enjoyed? That’s the wrong word I think – I certainly found it wholly compelling, and quite impossible to put down. That darkness though – I’ll admit there were times the story dipped into areas I might have preferred not to visit, things I witnessed I might have preferred not to have seen. But my goodness, the author does it so very well – this really was writing of the highest order, moving her into a quite different league.
Hattie’s brothers, Adam and Luke, unable to forgive her for abandoning them when they were so young, still live in the same Yorkshire village – their father was the vicar, their vicarage home falling into a state of neglect around them – but they need to try to pull together to finally put the past to rest. The story moves between past and present with particular ease – and we discover other key characters. Cousin Louisa is something of an enigma – a friend and ally to Hattie in her younger years, but perhaps not the best role model for her to follow, with secrets in both her past and present. And then there’s neighbour Griffin, once very close to Hattie, always there for her in times of trouble – but now married with a child, his wife understandably suspicious of their connection, and perhaps with some secrets of his own. The characterisation really is excellent – very real people (although none of them particularly likeable) with recognisable family relationships, small details gradually revealed and built on, preconceptions often overturned, suspicions raised about their involvement, with the truth about the events of that fateful night steadily emerging.
It is quite a convoluted story – and that’s not a criticism but a strong positive – and I really had no idea where it was going until events had played out and the many deceptions unfolded. It’s also very atmospheric, filled with tension, everything a bit oppressive at times (and rightly so) – and the story’s pacing is really excellent, edge-of-the-seat storytelling with so many shocks and touches of the wholly unexpected. And there are moments of considerable drama too – that sometimes feel like your nightmares brought to life.
Was it a book I enjoyed? That’s the wrong word I think – I certainly found it wholly compelling, and quite impossible to put down. That darkness though – I’ll admit there were times the story dipped into areas I might have preferred not to visit, things I witnessed I might have preferred not to have seen. But my goodness, the author does it so very well – this really was writing of the highest order, moving her into a quite different league.
December 2, 2024
The family home by LH Stacy, when the book begins we meet Hattie nine years before her father was murdered and now her mother lives in pretty much a vegetable state or as far as Hattie knows she does because she hasn’t been home in nine years. So when she steps outside of work and sees that her cousin Lou and brother Luke have been trying to get in touch with her she fears the worst she calls her cousin Lou who tells her her mom has cancer and is soon going into hospice but before she passes away she has something to tell Hattie and her two younger brothers Adam and Luke. So finally Hattie is going home. This is just the first POV in the next one we meet Sophie she married but separated from Griffin who lives right next-door to Hattie’s childhood family home and where the atrocities happened. Sophie has moved away from her friends and family to be with him and she recently has given birth to baby Noah. She is OK with them being separated but when she sees the chemistry between her husband and new neighbor she isn’t happy about it at all. Hattie also has POV‘s remembering days and years before the tragedy that also include her crush on Fin a.k.a. Griffin. They also show cousin Lou is not always the best influence and also has a Darkside. When it’s time for the big reveal by imaging she opens the little box with all her secrets only to find it empty, so this means imaging isn’t the only one who knows their secret. This is when Hattie tries to figure it out for herself and unbeknownst to Hattie there’s someone on her trail for other reasons but like any good thriller they aren’t the only ones looking for long buried secrets and not exactly the same ones. I love a good book that keeps me up until the wee hours of the night wanting to know the ending and that is definitely The Family Home. I kind of guessed one twist but was ill prepared for all of the Wham! Bam thank you ma’am‘s at the end of this book. Except for a few overly dramatic moments this really came so close to being a five-star read. So freaking good! #NetGalley, #BoldWoodBooks, #LHStacy, #TheFamilyHome,
November 17, 2024
The Family Home by L.H. Stacey is a slow-burning mystery filled with secrets, family drama, and haunting memories. The story alternates between the present day and events from nine years ago, weaving a tale of betrayal, grief, and long-buried truths.
Hattie, the protagonist, is summoned back to her family home after years of estrangement. Her mother, Imogen, on her deathbed, has something important to share—a revelation that will unravel the dark events surrounding the night Hattie's father was killed and her mother was gravely injured. As Hattie reunites with her brothers, Adam and Luke, and cousin, Louisa, tensions rise, and the family’s fractured dynamics come to the surface.
The book starts with a gripping scene and builds an atmosphere of suspense as secrets are slowly revealed. However, the pacing is uneven, with long stretches that feel more focused on character interactions than advancing the plot. While the alternating timelines serve to fill in the backstory, they can sometimes disrupt the flow, making it harder to stay fully immersed in the mystery.
The characters are complex, though not particularly likable. Hattie, in particular, is a character you may struggle to root for, as her decisions and attitudes often come across as frustrating. Despite this, her pain and inner conflict are palpable, and her journey to confront the past is compelling enough to keep the pages turning.
The twists in the story are somewhat predictable, but the tension builds nicely toward the climax, with a couple of surprises to keep things interesting. The atmospheric writing and chilling setting enhance the reading experience, even if the mystery itself doesn't break new ground.
If you enjoy family-centered mysteries with a focus on emotional drama and secrets, The Family Home may be worth adding to your TBR pile. Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
Hattie, the protagonist, is summoned back to her family home after years of estrangement. Her mother, Imogen, on her deathbed, has something important to share—a revelation that will unravel the dark events surrounding the night Hattie's father was killed and her mother was gravely injured. As Hattie reunites with her brothers, Adam and Luke, and cousin, Louisa, tensions rise, and the family’s fractured dynamics come to the surface.
The book starts with a gripping scene and builds an atmosphere of suspense as secrets are slowly revealed. However, the pacing is uneven, with long stretches that feel more focused on character interactions than advancing the plot. While the alternating timelines serve to fill in the backstory, they can sometimes disrupt the flow, making it harder to stay fully immersed in the mystery.
The characters are complex, though not particularly likable. Hattie, in particular, is a character you may struggle to root for, as her decisions and attitudes often come across as frustrating. Despite this, her pain and inner conflict are palpable, and her journey to confront the past is compelling enough to keep the pages turning.
The twists in the story are somewhat predictable, but the tension builds nicely toward the climax, with a couple of surprises to keep things interesting. The atmospheric writing and chilling setting enhance the reading experience, even if the mystery itself doesn't break new ground.
If you enjoy family-centered mysteries with a focus on emotional drama and secrets, The Family Home may be worth adding to your TBR pile. Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
November 10, 2024
The Family Home by L H Stacey is a recommended mystery.
Nine years ago Hattie Gilby's father was killed and her mother, Imogen, was seriously injured and has been under constant care ever since. At that time Hattie left her home and hasn't been back since. Now she has received calls from her brothers Adam and Luke, and her cousin Louisa, telling her that her mother is in hospice care and has something she wants to say to her children while they are all there. Imogen hasn't talked for years as it was a struggle so it has to be important. Hattie returns home to face her brothers and hear what her mother has to say.
After an attention grabbing opening, the pace evens out until the end. The narrative alternates between events from nine years ago and the present day and are mainly from Hattie's point-of-view with a few chapters from Sophie, the wife of a former boyfriend/neighbor, and an ending chapter from another character. The alternating timeline serves a purpose, but wasn't entirely successful as the information and background could have covered the events it needed to with fewer chapters.
None of the characters are fully realized as unique individuals and they are all unlikable. Actually, Hattie became more disagreeable as the novel continued. It would have been nice to actually care about one of the characters as the ending approached.
While the plot did keep me reading, I predicted the direction the story was taking early on and was disappointed that I was correct. There are several times you need to suspend disbelief while reading. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2024/1...
Nine years ago Hattie Gilby's father was killed and her mother, Imogen, was seriously injured and has been under constant care ever since. At that time Hattie left her home and hasn't been back since. Now she has received calls from her brothers Adam and Luke, and her cousin Louisa, telling her that her mother is in hospice care and has something she wants to say to her children while they are all there. Imogen hasn't talked for years as it was a struggle so it has to be important. Hattie returns home to face her brothers and hear what her mother has to say.
After an attention grabbing opening, the pace evens out until the end. The narrative alternates between events from nine years ago and the present day and are mainly from Hattie's point-of-view with a few chapters from Sophie, the wife of a former boyfriend/neighbor, and an ending chapter from another character. The alternating timeline serves a purpose, but wasn't entirely successful as the information and background could have covered the events it needed to with fewer chapters.
None of the characters are fully realized as unique individuals and they are all unlikable. Actually, Hattie became more disagreeable as the novel continued. It would have been nice to actually care about one of the characters as the ending approached.
While the plot did keep me reading, I predicted the direction the story was taking early on and was disappointed that I was correct. There are several times you need to suspend disbelief while reading. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2024/1...
January 5, 2025
L H Stacey has penned a chilling, terrifying and unpredictable thriller with her latest novel, The Family Home.
One horrible night had changed Hattie Gilby’s life forever. With her whole world upended, Hattie had made a promise never to return to the family home ever again. But she’s had to go back on her promise after receiving a phone call which leaves her with no other choice but to return to the place where everything had changed for her. Coming face to face with her two brothers is hard enough, but seeing her mother Imogen again brings with it a whole host of feelings Hattie isn’t sure she is prepared for.
Imogen hasn’t spoken a single word since that night. That night where she had been horribly beaten and her husband had been murdered in cold blood. Long-buried secrets that have been hidden for so long are about to come out into the light. But Hattie isn’t sure she is ready to hear the truth. Worse, there is someone close to her prepared to do whatever it takes to make sure that Hattie is precluded from finding out what really happened that fateful night all those years ago…
A shocking tale of lies, secrets and murder, The Family Home is an addictive and engrossing thriller by L H Stacey that will keep readers up way past their bedtime. L H Stacey certainly knows how to shred her readers’ nerves and have them on a knife’s edge desperate to find out what is going to happen next and with The Family Home she has outdone herself by writing a creepy and unsettling chiller that will give them nightmares.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
One horrible night had changed Hattie Gilby’s life forever. With her whole world upended, Hattie had made a promise never to return to the family home ever again. But she’s had to go back on her promise after receiving a phone call which leaves her with no other choice but to return to the place where everything had changed for her. Coming face to face with her two brothers is hard enough, but seeing her mother Imogen again brings with it a whole host of feelings Hattie isn’t sure she is prepared for.
Imogen hasn’t spoken a single word since that night. That night where she had been horribly beaten and her husband had been murdered in cold blood. Long-buried secrets that have been hidden for so long are about to come out into the light. But Hattie isn’t sure she is ready to hear the truth. Worse, there is someone close to her prepared to do whatever it takes to make sure that Hattie is precluded from finding out what really happened that fateful night all those years ago…
A shocking tale of lies, secrets and murder, The Family Home is an addictive and engrossing thriller by L H Stacey that will keep readers up way past their bedtime. L H Stacey certainly knows how to shred her readers’ nerves and have them on a knife’s edge desperate to find out what is going to happen next and with The Family Home she has outdone herself by writing a creepy and unsettling chiller that will give them nightmares.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 27, 2024
What did I like about this book?
Plot: This was a story that kept me interested, despite having figured most of it out by the end. It was nice that the author threw in a couple surprises at the end so I didn't feel completely unsatisfied, but most of it was predictable. I know a lot of authors are using the split time-frame in storytelling these days, and to be completely honest, I don't love it. Just as I get into the plot, it switches to "9-years ago," which is simply annoying to me. But overall, I enjoyed the plot.
Characters: I hated them all. Maybe hate is a harsh word, but most of them didn't have many redeeming qualities. While I was interested in what Hattie had experienced as a young woman, I didn't care about her. In fact, I didn't really like her or understand why she would abandon her family the way she did. The dynamics between all the characters was shallow, and left me irritated by them all.
If I hated the characters, why the 4 stars? Because it kept me reading. Sometimes when a book is predictable you know from the first chapter how it's going to end. This wasn't predictable in that way. The author gave out clues throughout the book...they were just easy to see. I certainly wouldn't classify it as a thriller. Mystery, yes. Thriller, no. Even though I hated the characters, I can't help but think that's what the author was going for.
Thanks Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for my review.
Plot: This was a story that kept me interested, despite having figured most of it out by the end. It was nice that the author threw in a couple surprises at the end so I didn't feel completely unsatisfied, but most of it was predictable. I know a lot of authors are using the split time-frame in storytelling these days, and to be completely honest, I don't love it. Just as I get into the plot, it switches to "9-years ago," which is simply annoying to me. But overall, I enjoyed the plot.
Characters: I hated them all. Maybe hate is a harsh word, but most of them didn't have many redeeming qualities. While I was interested in what Hattie had experienced as a young woman, I didn't care about her. In fact, I didn't really like her or understand why she would abandon her family the way she did. The dynamics between all the characters was shallow, and left me irritated by them all.
If I hated the characters, why the 4 stars? Because it kept me reading. Sometimes when a book is predictable you know from the first chapter how it's going to end. This wasn't predictable in that way. The author gave out clues throughout the book...they were just easy to see. I certainly wouldn't classify it as a thriller. Mystery, yes. Thriller, no. Even though I hated the characters, I can't help but think that's what the author was going for.
Thanks Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for my review.
November 23, 2024
Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley.
Hattie Gilby is forced to return to the family home she’s avoided for years, haunted by the dark events that shattered her family. Now, as her mother lies on her deathbed, Hattie is compelled to confront her estranged brothers and hear the long-buried truth of what really happened that fateful night—when her father was murdered, her mother was left speechless, and her family’s life changed forever. But with someone determined to keep these secrets hidden, Hattie’s journey for answers may prove more dangerous than she ever imagined.
While the premise promises a chilling, suspenseful family drama, the story didn’t quite live up to its potential. The pacing felt slow, and the characters lacked the depth and complexity needed to make their struggles relatable or engaging. Hattie’s family, though surrounded by secrets and trauma, felt distant, making it hard to invest in their fates. The plot also felt disjointed at times, with key details mentioned briefly and then dropped.
The suspense was also somewhat undercut by predictable plot twists. I found myself guessing many of the reveals early on, which took away much of the thrill. Loose ends left unresolved and a lackluster ending contributed to a sense of unfinished business that made the novel less satisfying.
Hattie Gilby is forced to return to the family home she’s avoided for years, haunted by the dark events that shattered her family. Now, as her mother lies on her deathbed, Hattie is compelled to confront her estranged brothers and hear the long-buried truth of what really happened that fateful night—when her father was murdered, her mother was left speechless, and her family’s life changed forever. But with someone determined to keep these secrets hidden, Hattie’s journey for answers may prove more dangerous than she ever imagined.
While the premise promises a chilling, suspenseful family drama, the story didn’t quite live up to its potential. The pacing felt slow, and the characters lacked the depth and complexity needed to make their struggles relatable or engaging. Hattie’s family, though surrounded by secrets and trauma, felt distant, making it hard to invest in their fates. The plot also felt disjointed at times, with key details mentioned briefly and then dropped.
The suspense was also somewhat undercut by predictable plot twists. I found myself guessing many of the reveals early on, which took away much of the thrill. Loose ends left unresolved and a lackluster ending contributed to a sense of unfinished business that made the novel less satisfying.
November 28, 2024
The Family Home
by L.H.Stacey
Nothing is as perfect as it seems.
Hattie Gilby hasn't returned to her family home since the devastating events that transpired there years ago. These events changed Hattie and continue to haunt her to this day. However, one phone call alters everything.
Now, Hattie is going back to confront her brothers, Adam and Luke, and to hear her dying mother's last words.
Imogen Gilby hasn't spoken a word since the night she was beaten almost to death and her husband was murdered. But now, she feels it's time to reveal the truth about what happened that fateful night and the secrets that nearly destroyed her family.
Hattie is still uncertain whether she wants to uncover the truth. It seems that someone close to them will go to great lengths to ensure these secrets remain hidden forever.
The author of The Fake Date and The House Guest presents another captivating, unputdownable thriller featuring realistic characters you love to love and hate, navigating a tense and twisty storyline.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I have explored most of this author's back catalogue and eagerly anticipate her subsequent work. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys the genre.
I want to thank Boldwood Books, author L.H. Stacey, and Rachel's Random Resources for providing a copy to read and review.
by L.H.Stacey
Nothing is as perfect as it seems.
Hattie Gilby hasn't returned to her family home since the devastating events that transpired there years ago. These events changed Hattie and continue to haunt her to this day. However, one phone call alters everything.
Now, Hattie is going back to confront her brothers, Adam and Luke, and to hear her dying mother's last words.
Imogen Gilby hasn't spoken a word since the night she was beaten almost to death and her husband was murdered. But now, she feels it's time to reveal the truth about what happened that fateful night and the secrets that nearly destroyed her family.
Hattie is still uncertain whether she wants to uncover the truth. It seems that someone close to them will go to great lengths to ensure these secrets remain hidden forever.
The author of The Fake Date and The House Guest presents another captivating, unputdownable thriller featuring realistic characters you love to love and hate, navigating a tense and twisty storyline.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I have explored most of this author's back catalogue and eagerly anticipate her subsequent work. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys the genre.
I want to thank Boldwood Books, author L.H. Stacey, and Rachel's Random Resources for providing a copy to read and review.
November 30, 2024
The Family Home by L.H. Stacey
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Nothing is as perfect as it seems…
Hattie Gilby has not been back to her family home since the devastating events that took place there years ago. Events that changed Hattie and which continue to haunt her today. But one phone call changes everything.
Now Hattie is going back to her family home to face her brothers, Adam and Luke and to hear the last words of her dying mother.
Imogen Gilby hasn’t spoken a word since the night she was beaten almost to death and her husband was murdered. But now it’s time to reveal the truth about what happened that night and the secrets that almost destroyed her.
Hattie isn’t sure she wants to know the truth. And it seems someone close to them will do anything to make sure the secrets stay hidden forever…
My Opinion
Well this was a fun thriller – definitely not what I expected. L.H. Stacey has written a fast-paced novel that I sat and read in one sitting. The events of nine years earlier have been told in some chapters, these are all clearly labelled and easy to follow. Whilst some of the twists were predictable there were definitely some I didn’t see coming. For me this was a great introduction to L.H. Stacey
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Nothing is as perfect as it seems…
Hattie Gilby has not been back to her family home since the devastating events that took place there years ago. Events that changed Hattie and which continue to haunt her today. But one phone call changes everything.
Now Hattie is going back to her family home to face her brothers, Adam and Luke and to hear the last words of her dying mother.
Imogen Gilby hasn’t spoken a word since the night she was beaten almost to death and her husband was murdered. But now it’s time to reveal the truth about what happened that night and the secrets that almost destroyed her.
Hattie isn’t sure she wants to know the truth. And it seems someone close to them will do anything to make sure the secrets stay hidden forever…
My Opinion
Well this was a fun thriller – definitely not what I expected. L.H. Stacey has written a fast-paced novel that I sat and read in one sitting. The events of nine years earlier have been told in some chapters, these are all clearly labelled and easy to follow. Whilst some of the twists were predictable there were definitely some I didn’t see coming. For me this was a great introduction to L.H. Stacey
Rating 4/5
December 3, 2024
The Family Home by L. H. Stacey is a gripping story of a family’s history and it is full of dark secrets that will keep you on the edge of your seat especially as it is full of great twists and turns throughout.
Hattie Gilby has not been back to her family home since the devastating events that took place there all those years ago. These events changed Hattie so much they continue to haunt her today. Then out of the blue, her phone rings and it displays a number she hasn't seen for years..........But this one phone call changes everything.
Now, Hattie is going back to her family home to face her brothers, Adam and Luke........The main thing to go back home is to hear the last words of her dying mother.
Imogen Gilby, hasn’t spoken a word since that night she was beaten almost to death and her husband was murdered. But now it’s time to reveal the truth about what happened that night and the dark secrets that almost destroyed her.
But, Hattie isn’t sure she wants to know the truth. It seems someone close to them will do anything to make sure the secrets stay hidden forever….......But Why?
I really enjoyed this book and I loved the way this author writes.
I highly recommend it. Great Holiday read.
Big Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books for my ARC.
Hattie Gilby has not been back to her family home since the devastating events that took place there all those years ago. These events changed Hattie so much they continue to haunt her today. Then out of the blue, her phone rings and it displays a number she hasn't seen for years..........But this one phone call changes everything.
Now, Hattie is going back to her family home to face her brothers, Adam and Luke........The main thing to go back home is to hear the last words of her dying mother.
Imogen Gilby, hasn’t spoken a word since that night she was beaten almost to death and her husband was murdered. But now it’s time to reveal the truth about what happened that night and the dark secrets that almost destroyed her.
But, Hattie isn’t sure she wants to know the truth. It seems someone close to them will do anything to make sure the secrets stay hidden forever….......But Why?
I really enjoyed this book and I loved the way this author writes.
I highly recommend it. Great Holiday read.
Big Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books for my ARC.
October 17, 2024
2.5 stars rounded down to 2. Ugh. I just hate giving low reviews. However, I promised an honest review. The Family Home is more of a drama with a few twists thrown in. Nothing chilling here. Hattie has not been home in many years. She avoids her home town and the home she grew up in like the plague. Then she receives a call that her mother is dying and doesn't have long and wants to speak in person to Hattie and her 2 brothers, Luke and Adam. So home she goes.
This is a long read without much satisfaction at the end. The characters were very underdeveloped and unlikable. I felt like I was getting breadcrumbs about the story here and there, and then the subject would change before I could feel the book. There were loose ends, which I don't like. And I had to keep going back and re-reading to see if I missed something because the topic would just change and I felt like the author expected you to know what happened, when I really didn't have a clue. This was one I literally plodded through, just waiting to get to the end.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. I greatly appreciate it. I am sorry, but I do not recommend this book.
This is a long read without much satisfaction at the end. The characters were very underdeveloped and unlikable. I felt like I was getting breadcrumbs about the story here and there, and then the subject would change before I could feel the book. There were loose ends, which I don't like. And I had to keep going back and re-reading to see if I missed something because the topic would just change and I felt like the author expected you to know what happened, when I really didn't have a clue. This was one I literally plodded through, just waiting to get to the end.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. I greatly appreciate it. I am sorry, but I do not recommend this book.
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