What do you think?
Rate this book
The Cottage
Quiet. That is what grumpy, loss-ridden George Morgan wants. When he unexpectedly inherits a cottage at the edge of some deserted woods, he thinks he’s found his hideaway.
Until the ghosts of 150 years ago start knocking at his cottage door.
George is the end of his family line—but the family history is by no means dead. The ghosts at the door are not ghosts at all. And those uninhabited woods behind the cottage have an awful lot of inhabitants in them: nosy neighbors who have been trapped in time for more than a century, and a crazy, albeit beautiful lady who runs the forgotten town by...uncanny means.
George has more left to care for than he realized. But someone of extraordinary power is stalking his every move, and options are running out. George has only his own past and a haunting piece of music to save himself and the townspeople, before he loses the last of all he loves.
Until the ghosts of 150 years ago start knocking at his cottage door.
George is the end of his family line—but the family history is by no means dead. The ghosts at the door are not ghosts at all. And those uninhabited woods behind the cottage have an awful lot of inhabitants in them: nosy neighbors who have been trapped in time for more than a century, and a crazy, albeit beautiful lady who runs the forgotten town by...uncanny means.
George has more left to care for than he realized. But someone of extraordinary power is stalking his every move, and options are running out. George has only his own past and a haunting piece of music to save himself and the townspeople, before he loses the last of all he loves.
366 pages, Hardcover
Published October 24, 2024
3 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 5, 2025
This is the kind of story that stays with you and changes the way you view the seemingly mundane. A unique and gripping story that doesn't easily fit into a cookie-cutter genre, The Cottage nudges the reader toward considering what it means to live in a world that is more than just a collection of physical things.
January 27, 2025
Hands down my favorite book I’ve read in a long time. Extremely well written. It’s such a captivating story that I read it from cover to cover in two days. I loved the combination of magic and music. It was the perfect blend of mystery and fantasy. I didn’t know how it was going to end, and I love a good book that holds my attention til the very end. Can’t wait for the sequel!!!!
March 5, 2025
N.D. Haupt's The Cottage kept my attention in a similar way to my favorite classic show, The Twilight Zone: strange happenings involving characters you care about, and with a thread of deep meaning running throughout the plot. Adult readers may find their imaginations stirred up like George's to the point of asking whether all of this is really so unbelievable after all.
October 19, 2025
Oh my goodness, what a read! This had me hooked from the first page and I enjoyed every suspenseful moment. I’m ready for a sequel!!
January 2, 2025
The difference between a merely entertaining novel and an unusually "good" novel is purpose. I enjoy an entertaining story as much as the next person, but the ones that stick with me are the stories by which the author leaves my perceptions of reality a bit rattled in the wake of the reading.
N.D. Haupt's "The Cottage" is certainly a well-crafted and entertaining story, but more than that it has a purpose: it challenges the reader to "see" a little otherwise and especially to "hear" a little differently. The Cottage raises questions about the realities on the periphery of our transitory mundanity.
Refreshingly, even without sacrificing genuine thrills, there's nothing in "The Cottage" designed to evoke horror or disgust merely for their own sake, which is a testament to the skill of the writing and the depth of the story. You can comfortably hand a copy of this book to a thoughtful teen as well as your learned great uncle with every expectation that one will enjoy and appreciate the story as much as the other, if perhaps for different reasons.
From the inside flap of the book jacket, it is obvious that N.D. Haupt is not a gruff, middle-aged man with personal habits worn to the point of rigidity and no social life, but darned if she can't get you inside protagonist George Morgan's head... and make you quite enjoy sharing his reluctant journey of responsibility and selflessness. George is likeable, and so are many of the characters he's determined not to like along the way.
And then there's Lux, about whom I can confidently say N.D. Haupt absolutely must deliver more quality narrative for we readers to enjoy. And, speaking of opportunities to enjoy, "The Cottage" would make an absolutely fabulous audiobook in the right hands, so consider me waving my Audible credits about my head vigorously in demand for and anticipation of an audio adaptation.
I don't want to say too much more about "The Cottage" because, as you will enjoy discovering, there are pearls to be found.
N.D. Haupt's "The Cottage" is certainly a well-crafted and entertaining story, but more than that it has a purpose: it challenges the reader to "see" a little otherwise and especially to "hear" a little differently. The Cottage raises questions about the realities on the periphery of our transitory mundanity.
Refreshingly, even without sacrificing genuine thrills, there's nothing in "The Cottage" designed to evoke horror or disgust merely for their own sake, which is a testament to the skill of the writing and the depth of the story. You can comfortably hand a copy of this book to a thoughtful teen as well as your learned great uncle with every expectation that one will enjoy and appreciate the story as much as the other, if perhaps for different reasons.
From the inside flap of the book jacket, it is obvious that N.D. Haupt is not a gruff, middle-aged man with personal habits worn to the point of rigidity and no social life, but darned if she can't get you inside protagonist George Morgan's head... and make you quite enjoy sharing his reluctant journey of responsibility and selflessness. George is likeable, and so are many of the characters he's determined not to like along the way.
And then there's Lux, about whom I can confidently say N.D. Haupt absolutely must deliver more quality narrative for we readers to enjoy. And, speaking of opportunities to enjoy, "The Cottage" would make an absolutely fabulous audiobook in the right hands, so consider me waving my Audible credits about my head vigorously in demand for and anticipation of an audio adaptation.
I don't want to say too much more about "The Cottage" because, as you will enjoy discovering, there are pearls to be found.
December 11, 2024
N.D. Haupt's The Cottage is a captivating blend of mystery, intriguing characters, and multiple timelines that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The story follows George, a young man who moves to his family’s remote cottage in hopes of uncovering long-hidden secrets. As he digs into old journals and letters, he stumbles upon a chilling mystery involving a past disappearance, love, and betrayal. The way the novel shifts between the early 20th century and the present day adds layers to the plot, slowly revealing the truths that have been buried for years.
One of the standout elements of the book is how music plays such a central role. George’s own musical journey mirrors his search for answers, with certain pieces echoing throughout the narrative to connect the past and present. It’s a powerful way of deepening the emotional stakes and making the story feel even more immersive. Haupt’s writing is atmospheric and engaging, making it easy to get lost in both the mystery and the characters’ lives. If you love a good literary mystery that mixes suspense with emotional depth and a touch of music, The Cottage is definitely worth picking up.
One of the standout elements of the book is how music plays such a central role. George’s own musical journey mirrors his search for answers, with certain pieces echoing throughout the narrative to connect the past and present. It’s a powerful way of deepening the emotional stakes and making the story feel even more immersive. Haupt’s writing is atmospheric and engaging, making it easy to get lost in both the mystery and the characters’ lives. If you love a good literary mystery that mixes suspense with emotional depth and a touch of music, The Cottage is definitely worth picking up.
December 10, 2024
This is my favorite book of 2024 and a must read! Haupt does an incredible job of drawing you in and making you somehow feel as if you're playing some part in this story.
The first chapter immediately made me want to know more. My curiosity was peaked! Admittedly, I did struggle a bit getting into the second and third chapters, but soon realized how the foundation of this story was being laid and I fell head first into the suspense. I couldn't put it down!
Books these days can be quite predictable and unfortunately all too easy to see the ending of before you finish the last chapter. This book however was the complete opposite. There were many twists and turns that left you needing to read the next chapter. Longing to know how it all turns out; somehow feeling connected to the character's own reality and emotions.
I will absolutely be on the look out from anything coming from ND Haupt and I cannot recommend this book highly enough! Excellent read from an excellent author.
The first chapter immediately made me want to know more. My curiosity was peaked! Admittedly, I did struggle a bit getting into the second and third chapters, but soon realized how the foundation of this story was being laid and I fell head first into the suspense. I couldn't put it down!
Books these days can be quite predictable and unfortunately all too easy to see the ending of before you finish the last chapter. This book however was the complete opposite. There were many twists and turns that left you needing to read the next chapter. Longing to know how it all turns out; somehow feeling connected to the character's own reality and emotions.
I will absolutely be on the look out from anything coming from ND Haupt and I cannot recommend this book highly enough! Excellent read from an excellent author.
March 17, 2025
This was a lovely book that captured my attention. It is mysterious and beautifully written. All of my senses were engaged, which is no easy feat! Every character description and piece of dialogue was "just right" - not lacking, not overdone. I was struck by some sections that activated my imagination in new and unusual ways. *For example, without spoiling anything, the moment the female teen character is left sitting in the yard with her hands in the grass, I was brought nearly to tears by the way the scene was presented.* The descriptions of grief and fear, longing and greed, were stirring. I loved the surprise twist and turns, the hermit George's inner thought life, the strange circumstances of his neighbors revealed, and the hope of true life restored.
Well done, N.D. Haupt. You have a gift. I hope there are many more stories to share soon!
Well done, N.D. Haupt. You have a gift. I hope there are many more stories to share soon!
January 8, 2025
The Cottage is a uniquely creative and intriguing story that readers will find captivating. The original plot simultaneously introduces an extraordinary discovery of a supernatural treasure along with what seems to be a very ordinary fellow named George. The well-crafted structure weaves the two elements crossing over in time alongside the development of a fascinating narrative and engaging characters.
The story reaches to unexpected depths, causing one to ponder much afterwards its message, the ordinary yet wondrous people, and the glorious power of true life, with light, freedom… and music.
This book is a jewel for sure, hard to set down, and is certain to be much treasured by its readers of all ages!
The story reaches to unexpected depths, causing one to ponder much afterwards its message, the ordinary yet wondrous people, and the glorious power of true life, with light, freedom… and music.
This book is a jewel for sure, hard to set down, and is certain to be much treasured by its readers of all ages!
May 7, 2025
The first line might live in my mind forever.
The novel begins with a gentle pace that gives way to a beautifully layered, thought-provoking story. Haupt masterfully weaves multiple timelines and characters into a narrative that feels grounded in the everyday—coffee, music, quiet moments—yet rich with deeper meaning. The characters are real and memorable, and while I wished for more insight into George’s personal life, the novel as a whole is engaging, emotionally resonant, and skillfully told. The suspense builds with a true sense of hope in something bigger. A truly enjoyable and moving read. I look forward to more of her work!
The novel begins with a gentle pace that gives way to a beautifully layered, thought-provoking story. Haupt masterfully weaves multiple timelines and characters into a narrative that feels grounded in the everyday—coffee, music, quiet moments—yet rich with deeper meaning. The characters are real and memorable, and while I wished for more insight into George’s personal life, the novel as a whole is engaging, emotionally resonant, and skillfully told. The suspense builds with a true sense of hope in something bigger. A truly enjoyable and moving read. I look forward to more of her work!
December 17, 2024
I started reading a bit slowly, reading at the end of the day. But as the story went on & I got more invested in the characters I started thinking more & more about how I could squeeze more reading time in my day so I could keep going. The writing is so descriptive I didn’t have to work hard to picture the people & places in my mind. And when I turned the final page I was sad it was over & ready for the next one to continue learning more about The Gifted, the Pearls, and how George is connected to the whole story.
December 10, 2024
I haven't finished a book this quickly in years. Intriguing story, great character development, and a heaping measure of irony (both comic and tragic) pulled me in, and the way the mystery slowly unfolds (with clever chapter break placement), kept me in orbit until the last page.
Especially suggested for readers who enjoyed "A Man Called Ove", or "The Chronicles of Narnia", as N.D. Haupt manages to sew those two very separate genres together beautifully.
Especially suggested for readers who enjoyed "A Man Called Ove", or "The Chronicles of Narnia", as N.D. Haupt manages to sew those two very separate genres together beautifully.
February 13, 2025
The Cottage is officially one of my favorite books!! It’s both suspenseful and endearing through beautifully detailed storytelling. The author’s imagination is wonderful and you’re left wondering what could happen on the next page. It’s the perfect balance of fantasy and reality! I absolutely LOVE how the plot unfolds throughout the book and how the characters develop with each passing chapter. Truly well done!
May 3, 2025
The Cottage is fascinating, there are so many complex ideas that intertwine in fun and interesting ways. Definitely mysterious, some time travel, the Actonian idea " power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely", mother and father wounds, music, healing, redemption, supernatural without being obviously agenda driven. It's deeply moving without being feeling emotionally burdensome. I loved it!
June 16, 2025
4.5
I've had this book since October and I just got around to reading it. I know.
I thought the book was off to a slow start, but I realized it was me in a reading funk. This book hit all the right notes to draw the reader in and take you on an adventure that you just didn't see coming. This was beautifully spun and enjoyable on so many levels.
My hesitant to read middle-teen loved it and recommended it to her voracious reading elder sis. High praise, to be sure.
I've had this book since October and I just got around to reading it. I know.
I thought the book was off to a slow start, but I realized it was me in a reading funk. This book hit all the right notes to draw the reader in and take you on an adventure that you just didn't see coming. This was beautifully spun and enjoyable on so many levels.
My hesitant to read middle-teen loved it and recommended it to her voracious reading elder sis. High praise, to be sure.
October 28, 2024
It feels like a nice book, smells like a nice book, pages turn nicely, and the story is fantastic!
Lovely themes of power and control versus what true love and true help looks like. Some good and unique surprises along the way and characters that have depth and complexity to them. I sure hope she writes a sequel!
Lovely themes of power and control versus what true love and true help looks like. Some good and unique surprises along the way and characters that have depth and complexity to them. I sure hope she writes a sequel!
December 12, 2024
I haven't read a novel in awhile but I grabbed The Cottage right when it came out and really enjoyed it. It was an intelligent mix of magic, intrigue, and reality that was quite believable and interesting. I found myself eager to discover what was going on, along with the main character. I highly recommend it!
April 10, 2025
This book will keep you intrigued right up until the end...and wondering what happens next! The characters draw you in, and though the book moves back and forth between different time periods, the writing and chapters are very easy to follow, and the style keeps you reading to find out more about each person's story. I look forward to seeing where the cliffhanger at the end leads!
March 14, 2025
The story was interesting, but the writing was subpar and the ending “twist” just left me confused. The characters also felt underdeveloped sometimes and the dialogue tended to be awkward. But again, the story itself was good and I enjoyed reading it for that reason.
April 9, 2025
I certainly hope that N.D. Haupt is writing a sequel. Too many loose threads left at the end and an abrupt cliffhanger. All in all, an engaging and immersive read full of well-developed characters and turns that keeps you guessing. Highly recommend.
November 1, 2025
So clever and one of a kind. Music as life and death? I’m already hooked. These are vivid characters that you will miss when the book closes. The scene-painting is pristine—you see, you feel, you fear, you...will be antsy for a sequel.
July 27, 2025
What a great book! Time travel, magic, knowledge but not necessarily wisdom. A fantastic read! I enjoyed it immensely!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews