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It Was Her House First
Ronnie doesn't know it yet, but her fate rests in the hands of the dead.
Silent film star Venita Rost's malevolent spirit lurks spider-like in her cliffside mansion, a once-beautiful home that's claimed countless unlucky souls. And she's not alone. Snared in her terrible web, Inspector Bartholomew Sloan—her eternal nemesis—watches her wreak havoc in helpless horror, shackled by his own guilt and Venita's unrelenting wrath.
Now the house has yet another new owner. This time it's Ronnie Mitchell, a grieving woman who buys the run-down place sight unseen. She arrives armed with an unexpected inheritance, a strong background in renovation, and a blissful ignorance regarding the house's blood-soaked history. But her arrival has stirred up more than just dust and decay. In the shadows, unseen eyes watch. Then, a man comes knocking. He brings wild stories and a thinly veiled jealousy, as well as a secret connection to the house that can only lead to violence.
Venita's fury awakens, and a deadly game unfolds.
Caught between a vengeful ghost and a ruthless living threat, Ronnie's skepticism crumbles. The line between living and dead isn't as sharp as it seems, and she realizes too late that in Venita's house, survival might be just an illusion.
Silent film star Venita Rost's malevolent spirit lurks spider-like in her cliffside mansion, a once-beautiful home that's claimed countless unlucky souls. And she's not alone. Snared in her terrible web, Inspector Bartholomew Sloan—her eternal nemesis—watches her wreak havoc in helpless horror, shackled by his own guilt and Venita's unrelenting wrath.
Now the house has yet another new owner. This time it's Ronnie Mitchell, a grieving woman who buys the run-down place sight unseen. She arrives armed with an unexpected inheritance, a strong background in renovation, and a blissful ignorance regarding the house's blood-soaked history. But her arrival has stirred up more than just dust and decay. In the shadows, unseen eyes watch. Then, a man comes knocking. He brings wild stories and a thinly veiled jealousy, as well as a secret connection to the house that can only lead to violence.
Venita's fury awakens, and a deadly game unfolds.
Caught between a vengeful ghost and a ruthless living threat, Ronnie's skepticism crumbles. The line between living and dead isn't as sharp as it seems, and she realizes too late that in Venita's house, survival might be just an illusion.
349 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2025
108 people are currently reading
19250 people want to read
About the author
Cherie Priest
73 books4,373 followersCherie Priest is the author of about thirty books and novellas, most recently the modern gothics It Was Her House First, The Drowning House, and Cinderwich. She's also the author of the Booking Agents mysteries, horror projects The Toll and The Family Plot – and the hit YA graphic novel mash-ups I Am Princess X and its follow up, The Agony House. But she is perhaps best known for the steampunk pulp adventures of the Clockwork Century, beginning with Boneshaker. She has been nominated for the Hugo Award and the Nebula Award, and the Locus award – which she won with Boneshaker.
Cherie has also written a number of urban fantasy titles, and composed pieces (large and small) for George R. R. Martin’s shared world universe, the Wild Cards. Her short stories and nonfiction articles have appeared in such fine publications as Weird Tales, Publishers Weekly, and numerous anthologies – and her books have been translated into nine languages in eleven countries.
Although she was born in Florida on the day Jimmy Hoffa disappeared, for the last twenty years Cherie has largely divided her time between Chattanooga, TN, and Seattle, WA – where she presently lives with her husband and a menagerie of exceedingly photogenic pets.
Cherie has also written a number of urban fantasy titles, and composed pieces (large and small) for George R. R. Martin’s shared world universe, the Wild Cards. Her short stories and nonfiction articles have appeared in such fine publications as Weird Tales, Publishers Weekly, and numerous anthologies – and her books have been translated into nine languages in eleven countries.
Although she was born in Florida on the day Jimmy Hoffa disappeared, for the last twenty years Cherie has largely divided her time between Chattanooga, TN, and Seattle, WA – where she presently lives with her husband and a menagerie of exceedingly photogenic pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 314 reviews
July 30, 2025
“Naive is a word powerful people use to shut you up. They don’t like you suggesting that the world could be less awful, because the world isn’t awful at all for them. They like the world exactly how it is.”
Ronnie moves into the house of silent film star Venita Rost, who had died years ago after the death of her young daughter. there’s been all this speculation over what and who was responsible for her daughter’s death, mainly the father and his longtime friend, Bartholomew Sloan. now, the ghosts of both Venita and her eternal nemesis Bartholomew inhabit the house and when his nephew starts digging around and asking Ronnie suspicious questions, they just might have to put their hate on the back burner and intervene from the other side. i had so much fun with this book.. the supernatural elements, the DRAMA, the reveals, the old film star vibe, the revenge, the plot, all of it was done so well. you’d have to pry ghost stories from MY cold dead hands.
⇢ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Poisoned Pen Press for the arc, all opinions are my own.
Ronnie moves into the house of silent film star Venita Rost, who had died years ago after the death of her young daughter. there’s been all this speculation over what and who was responsible for her daughter’s death, mainly the father and his longtime friend, Bartholomew Sloan. now, the ghosts of both Venita and her eternal nemesis Bartholomew inhabit the house and when his nephew starts digging around and asking Ronnie suspicious questions, they just might have to put their hate on the back burner and intervene from the other side. i had so much fun with this book.. the supernatural elements, the DRAMA, the reveals, the old film star vibe, the revenge, the plot, all of it was done so well. you’d have to pry ghost stories from MY cold dead hands.
⇢ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Poisoned Pen Press for the arc, all opinions are my own.
October 12, 2025
**3.5-stars rounded up**
'I suppose we get the ghosts we get,
not necessarily the ones we want.'
After Ronnie Mitchell receives an inheritance due to the tragic passing of a family member, she purchases a rundown mansion in West Seattle. With anxiety high and in need of distraction, this could be just the project she needs.
Ronnie has some carpentry experience, so feels like she'll be able to tackle anything the house throws at her. Unfortunately, what she knows nothing about is the bloody, violent history of this particular house.
Will that come back to bite her, or can she handle that too?
It Was Her House First was a captivating read, even though somehow it wasn't at all what I expected. I enjoyed it though very much. It reminded me a bit of The September House, so I would recommend it for fans of that book. It's not quite as graphic, but still manages to give those vibes.
I loved our present perspective MC, Ronnie. I connected with her way of thinking and it made it extra enjoyable. She has a bit of a wry, honest sense of humor, always just laying it out there for the Reader. I loved that.
We also get different perspectives that help to fill us in on the history of the house. These perspectives are all tied to it's heartbreaking history, and unsurprisingly, they're still very much connected to the house and the present situation Ronnie finds herself in.
There's a lot of mystery surrounding the house itself and the longer that Ronnie is there, the more interested she becomes in filling in that history knowledge for herself.
I appreciated Ronnie's strength and determination when it came to the house. Unsettling things begin happening fairly quickly after she takes ownership, but she never shies away. If anything, she leans in, going further than I think a lot of people would.
She felt very brave to me. Sometimes to a level where you questioned her choices, but nevertheless, she had a goal and she was sticking to it, come hell or high water.
Overall, I feel like this one is an interesting twist on a standard haunted house tale. I enjoyed the interactions of all the various players involved in the drama, and feel like Priest pulled off a lot with this one.
Even though it is a haunted house story, it has a bit of a cozier feel. As mentioned above, I would recommend it to Readers who enjoyed The September House, but also to fans of Rachel Harrison and T. Kingfisher's Adult Horror.
Thank you to the publisher, Poisoned Pen Press, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm looking forward to more from Cherie Priest!
'I suppose we get the ghosts we get,
not necessarily the ones we want.'
After Ronnie Mitchell receives an inheritance due to the tragic passing of a family member, she purchases a rundown mansion in West Seattle. With anxiety high and in need of distraction, this could be just the project she needs.
Ronnie has some carpentry experience, so feels like she'll be able to tackle anything the house throws at her. Unfortunately, what she knows nothing about is the bloody, violent history of this particular house.
Will that come back to bite her, or can she handle that too?
It Was Her House First was a captivating read, even though somehow it wasn't at all what I expected. I enjoyed it though very much. It reminded me a bit of The September House, so I would recommend it for fans of that book. It's not quite as graphic, but still manages to give those vibes.
I loved our present perspective MC, Ronnie. I connected with her way of thinking and it made it extra enjoyable. She has a bit of a wry, honest sense of humor, always just laying it out there for the Reader. I loved that.
We also get different perspectives that help to fill us in on the history of the house. These perspectives are all tied to it's heartbreaking history, and unsurprisingly, they're still very much connected to the house and the present situation Ronnie finds herself in.
There's a lot of mystery surrounding the house itself and the longer that Ronnie is there, the more interested she becomes in filling in that history knowledge for herself.
I appreciated Ronnie's strength and determination when it came to the house. Unsettling things begin happening fairly quickly after she takes ownership, but she never shies away. If anything, she leans in, going further than I think a lot of people would.
She felt very brave to me. Sometimes to a level where you questioned her choices, but nevertheless, she had a goal and she was sticking to it, come hell or high water.
Overall, I feel like this one is an interesting twist on a standard haunted house tale. I enjoyed the interactions of all the various players involved in the drama, and feel like Priest pulled off a lot with this one.
Even though it is a haunted house story, it has a bit of a cozier feel. As mentioned above, I would recommend it to Readers who enjoyed The September House, but also to fans of Rachel Harrison and T. Kingfisher's Adult Horror.
Thank you to the publisher, Poisoned Pen Press, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm looking forward to more from Cherie Priest!
May 4, 2025
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
It was her House First was a book I was drawn to from my gravitation towards stories about old houses with dark pasts. This book was one I wasn't too keen on when I started to read it, but I persevered and was so glad I stuck with it in the end.
We follow the POV of three characters; Ronnie (the new owner of the house who's purchased it at auction in an unseen condition), Venitia (an old silent movie actress and the first owner of the house) and Inspector Bartholemew Sloan who was murdered and remained tied to the house).
After the loss of her brother, Ronnie uses the money he left her into renovating a house she's drawn to. But her arrival stirs up ghosts of the past, unveils a mystery and leaves her in danger between a ghost hell bend on revenge and a sinister living threat that's becoming more and more desperate as time goes by....
This book had me hooked around 50% of the way through, and I really enjoyed Venitias parts with Ronnie. The ending was well executed and different from what I was expecting but in a good and enjoyable way.
It was her House First was a book I was drawn to from my gravitation towards stories about old houses with dark pasts. This book was one I wasn't too keen on when I started to read it, but I persevered and was so glad I stuck with it in the end.
We follow the POV of three characters; Ronnie (the new owner of the house who's purchased it at auction in an unseen condition), Venitia (an old silent movie actress and the first owner of the house) and Inspector Bartholemew Sloan who was murdered and remained tied to the house).
After the loss of her brother, Ronnie uses the money he left her into renovating a house she's drawn to. But her arrival stirs up ghosts of the past, unveils a mystery and leaves her in danger between a ghost hell bend on revenge and a sinister living threat that's becoming more and more desperate as time goes by....
This book had me hooked around 50% of the way through, and I really enjoyed Venitias parts with Ronnie. The ending was well executed and different from what I was expecting but in a good and enjoyable way.
September 5, 2025
The writing is compelling; shifting perspectives from different people and across timelines deepen the mystery, since none can be taken as fact. Each account is coloured by emotions, limited knowledge and subjectivity, according to which, our feelings and judgments towards each character change. Should I feel sorry for this character or read a sinister motive to everything they say or do? This narrative technique kept me engaged even during much quieter periods.
The question of whether ghosts can make and retain new memories, develop motives or form intentions is answered by degrees. There are vengeful and penitent ghosts; the addition of non-human entities and supernatural artefacts make the plot more thrilling. Even side characters unsettle with unpredictability alone. Why are they still there? Why won’t they leave? Some recall how they came to be instantly, while others relive their trauma gradually. Eventually, the same violent force rocks the house already crumbling at the edges. They change the landscape with them, turning a dreamy scene into a nightmare.
One overzealous character in particular raises red flags from the very beginning. His relentless attempts to worm his way into Ronnie’s life—or more precisely, into her house—through emotional manipulation are enough to give anyone the ick. It’s hard to tell people to get lost when they attach themselves to someone—or something—you care about. Clearly, his long-standing obsession suggests there’s little he wouldn’t do to get what he wants. Placing him next to Ronnie’s unofficial sister-in-law, makes the latter seem unjustifiably suspicious by contrast; if everyone in this story has secrets, what’s hers?
All in all, it was an atmospheric read—perfectly suited to a rainy day, especially with a steaming cup of tea and digestive biscuits. It’s not crazy scary, but it’s good enough.
The question of whether ghosts can make and retain new memories, develop motives or form intentions is answered by degrees. There are vengeful and penitent ghosts; the addition of non-human entities and supernatural artefacts make the plot more thrilling. Even side characters unsettle with unpredictability alone. Why are they still there? Why won’t they leave? Some recall how they came to be instantly, while others relive their trauma gradually. Eventually, the same violent force rocks the house already crumbling at the edges. They change the landscape with them, turning a dreamy scene into a nightmare.
One overzealous character in particular raises red flags from the very beginning. His relentless attempts to worm his way into Ronnie’s life—or more precisely, into her house—through emotional manipulation are enough to give anyone the ick. It’s hard to tell people to get lost when they attach themselves to someone—or something—you care about. Clearly, his long-standing obsession suggests there’s little he wouldn’t do to get what he wants. Placing him next to Ronnie’s unofficial sister-in-law, makes the latter seem unjustifiably suspicious by contrast; if everyone in this story has secrets, what’s hers?
All in all, it was an atmospheric read—perfectly suited to a rainy day, especially with a steaming cup of tea and digestive biscuits. It’s not crazy scary, but it’s good enough.
October 30, 2025
Ronnie Mitchell is a woman looking for a fresh start. She received an unexpected inheritance, so to start on this fresh start she buys a decaying mansion without ever having actually laid eyes on it. She doesn't know anything about her new home or especially about it's history...She'll soon learn. One important thing that she doesn't know is that her new home comes with a murderous reputation and several vengeful spirits who have been locked in eternal conflict since the 1930s.
The house was once home to silent film star Venita Rost, whose mysterious death sent her husband Oscar to the gallows and drove detective Bartholomew Sloan to suicide—all three now trapped within the mansion’s walls, each carrying their own version of a tragedy that destroyed them all.
I have always loved a good, haunted house story. They are my "guilty pleasures". Once in a while, I find a little bonus; an author that tries something "different" and Cherie Priest’s "It Was Her House First" perfectly fits this category.
The premise with this story is simple enough: our present-day Ronnie buys a dilapidated old mansion in west Seattle at auction, sight unseen mind you... and before even handing over the keys, the agent just has to comment on how much he hates the creepy old place that has been the scene of multiple deaths...so surely must be haunted. The prime suspect number one for any haunting of the mansion is its former owner...the star of the silent film era, Venita Rost. Others might include Bartholemew Sloan, a famous sleuth, and Hugh Crawford who has the honor of being the most recent previous owner who just melted into the floor. I couldn't make that up! He just melted into the floor...zilch...gone.
Ronnie arrives equipped with prior experience and knowledge of restoration and her best friend Kate, who was also her "not-quite sister-in-law". Unperturbed by the threat of specters, Ronnie is actually hoping for some "ghostly company" as she wrestles with her guilt and grief following her brother’s tragic death. What she hadn’t bargained on were threats from the "world of the living"...those that are intent on finding and securing by any means possible, something that was left behind in the crumbling mansion long ago.
It Was Her House First deals with the themes of mental illness.... the occult...grief and guilt...responsibility and regret...and ultimately, acceptance. Ronnie’s story is reflected in Sloan, who holds himself responsible for the untimely death of Venita’s daughter. Venita’s story also echoes with Ronnie’s as a woman treated, by those around her, as both fragile and "mad".
What’s different about this story is Ronnie’s approach to her new situation. Instead of fighting to try an eradicate the ghosts, she tries to work with them, to co-exist and to restore the house together for all their sakes. I really liked this non-standard approach to the "otherness" around us; to share our spaces with that which is "different" but still present in our lives.
Cherie Priest’s writing is easy to read and it's so very compelling. Ronnie is relatable, which makes the reader want to keep turning those pages. There are slow build-ups and explorations before the final "showdown". Overall, I found this to be an enjoyable ghost story with lots of heart and fantastic twists. Any "ghost story junkie" like myself, will really like it...just hope the lights stay on:)
The house was once home to silent film star Venita Rost, whose mysterious death sent her husband Oscar to the gallows and drove detective Bartholomew Sloan to suicide—all three now trapped within the mansion’s walls, each carrying their own version of a tragedy that destroyed them all.
I have always loved a good, haunted house story. They are my "guilty pleasures". Once in a while, I find a little bonus; an author that tries something "different" and Cherie Priest’s "It Was Her House First" perfectly fits this category.
The premise with this story is simple enough: our present-day Ronnie buys a dilapidated old mansion in west Seattle at auction, sight unseen mind you... and before even handing over the keys, the agent just has to comment on how much he hates the creepy old place that has been the scene of multiple deaths...so surely must be haunted. The prime suspect number one for any haunting of the mansion is its former owner...the star of the silent film era, Venita Rost. Others might include Bartholemew Sloan, a famous sleuth, and Hugh Crawford who has the honor of being the most recent previous owner who just melted into the floor. I couldn't make that up! He just melted into the floor...zilch...gone.
Ronnie arrives equipped with prior experience and knowledge of restoration and her best friend Kate, who was also her "not-quite sister-in-law". Unperturbed by the threat of specters, Ronnie is actually hoping for some "ghostly company" as she wrestles with her guilt and grief following her brother’s tragic death. What she hadn’t bargained on were threats from the "world of the living"...those that are intent on finding and securing by any means possible, something that was left behind in the crumbling mansion long ago.
It Was Her House First deals with the themes of mental illness.... the occult...grief and guilt...responsibility and regret...and ultimately, acceptance. Ronnie’s story is reflected in Sloan, who holds himself responsible for the untimely death of Venita’s daughter. Venita’s story also echoes with Ronnie’s as a woman treated, by those around her, as both fragile and "mad".
What’s different about this story is Ronnie’s approach to her new situation. Instead of fighting to try an eradicate the ghosts, she tries to work with them, to co-exist and to restore the house together for all their sakes. I really liked this non-standard approach to the "otherness" around us; to share our spaces with that which is "different" but still present in our lives.
Cherie Priest’s writing is easy to read and it's so very compelling. Ronnie is relatable, which makes the reader want to keep turning those pages. There are slow build-ups and explorations before the final "showdown". Overall, I found this to be an enjoyable ghost story with lots of heart and fantastic twists. Any "ghost story junkie" like myself, will really like it...just hope the lights stay on:)
July 22, 2025
This novel is engaging and mysterious with a haunting yet glamorous air about it. I think the writing is well done and as a whole the story is good. I fear I am not the target audience for this book so that is the reason for my 3 star review. I am not typically a fan of a haunted house type of book but every once in a while I give one a go just to see if my tastes have changed but sadly this one hasn't changed my mind. I did like the atmosphere of this book and having lived in the Seattle area for over a decade in my life, I understand the ominous feeling of this house and place but for me the story just didn't resonate very deeply. Again, I am likely not the target audience for this book so please take this review with a grain of salt.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 7/22/25
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 7/22/25
March 13, 2025
i really enjoyed this! i’m a sucker for a haunted house story. esp ones involving angry spirits, and a reminder that you can never trust a man 😤 this was creepy and very entertaining. the writing and format was interesting, couldn’t put it down. thank you to the publishers for the ARC.
March 4, 2025
This was such a unique haunted house story! I absolutely loved that we got the POV of the ghost, and him trying to talk but no one could hear him. I also loved that we got Venita’s POV told through her diary entries. So fun!
I found myself thinking about this book when I wasn’t reading it. Ronnie and Kate’s relationship was wonderful, I loved how they cared about each other. The house itself was what dreams are made of, if those dreams are dark and eerie. This was a great story! The only reason it’s not 5⭐️s is there were a few things I wish we had more clarity on.
I found myself thinking about this book when I wasn’t reading it. Ronnie and Kate’s relationship was wonderful, I loved how they cared about each other. The house itself was what dreams are made of, if those dreams are dark and eerie. This was a great story! The only reason it’s not 5⭐️s is there were a few things I wish we had more clarity on.
September 6, 2025
This is fine. Kind of gothic, not scary, occasionally veering more towards the kind of cozy banter Priest relies on in her Grave Reservations series, this has all the pieces it needs. But it runs out of new revelations around halfway through and after that it is more just waiting for the final climax to show up.
I kept getting distracted by how Ronnie would not leave this house despite its lack of heat or running water. Take a shower, Ronnie! Get a working toilet! You must be really cold in the mornings despite your fancy sleeping bag!
I kept getting distracted by how Ronnie would not leave this house despite its lack of heat or running water. Take a shower, Ronnie! Get a working toilet! You must be really cold in the mornings despite your fancy sleeping bag!
February 7, 2025
What a fun read! I’m a huge fan of houses that have a dark past or a history of unusual deaths, I find it makes for a creepier setting when your home which is usually a safe haven is turned into a potentially unsafe environment riddled with ghosts and hauntings.
What I also enjoyed about this book is the main character was unusual. She seemed to have some OCD tendencies which leaned towards the paranoid type which you understand when her recent past is explained. However when finding herself in an unorthodox potentially dangerous situation she seems to take to it really well and embrace it for what it is, I loved this aspect of personal character growth.
Another aspect I loved about this book was its use of various writing formats. We have multiple POV, dual timelines and journal entries.
I recommend reading if you enjoy:
Extreme home renovations / makeovers
A blend of historical fiction alongside present day
Haunted houses / ghosts
Mysteries and suspicious deaths
Quirky characters
A blend of writing formats
Thank you to Poisoned pen press and Cherie Priest for the earc!
Publish date: July 22nd 2025
What I also enjoyed about this book is the main character was unusual. She seemed to have some OCD tendencies which leaned towards the paranoid type which you understand when her recent past is explained. However when finding herself in an unorthodox potentially dangerous situation she seems to take to it really well and embrace it for what it is, I loved this aspect of personal character growth.
Another aspect I loved about this book was its use of various writing formats. We have multiple POV, dual timelines and journal entries.
I recommend reading if you enjoy:
Extreme home renovations / makeovers
A blend of historical fiction alongside present day
Haunted houses / ghosts
Mysteries and suspicious deaths
Quirky characters
A blend of writing formats
Thank you to Poisoned pen press and Cherie Priest for the earc!
Publish date: July 22nd 2025
August 2, 2025
Starts off pretty slow.. finally once the “scary stuff” happens it’s still kind of meh.
August 16, 2025
2.75/5
I love a good haunted house book but this one is rather unremarkable in general. The ending is fairly predictable and therefore the suspense was lacking. Most importantly, there weren’t any of those edge-of-your-seat, truly creepy moments that simultaneously delight and frighten.
The best aspect of this novel is the esthetic description of the dilapidated mansion, it’s done quite well. Reading about the necessary renovations and their associated costs, just to make the space livable, was the most interesting part of the book.
I love a good haunted house book but this one is rather unremarkable in general. The ending is fairly predictable and therefore the suspense was lacking. Most importantly, there weren’t any of those edge-of-your-seat, truly creepy moments that simultaneously delight and frighten.
The best aspect of this novel is the esthetic description of the dilapidated mansion, it’s done quite well. Reading about the necessary renovations and their associated costs, just to make the space livable, was the most interesting part of the book.
July 3, 2025
Thank you poisoned pen press for an early copy!!
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjogoNUP/
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjogoNUP/
July 30, 2025
2.5 stars
This book has some atmosphere, particularly near the conclusion where the tension and mood finally build, but much of the narrative feels overly focused on house repairs rather than haunting. While the premise is promising, it felt like I was reading renovation logistics rather than something emotional or supernatural.
The mystery surrounding Coty is a strong point. His trustworthiness is teased out well and adds needed tension to the story. The protagonist is also consistently portrayed, though her anxiety and OCD feel weakly handled. It felt more a narrative tool than a fully formed part of her character.
I thought including ghost POV chapters a clever twist. However, this book uses diary entries to narrate past events. It stretches plausibility because how can diary entries read like polished prose? This is a huge red flag for me in any book. Putting that to one side, I also thought the emotional depth in the present-day timeline underwhelming. The grief, in particular, doesn’t come through strongly, and the overall emotional tone feels muted.
Overall, this is a middle of the road haunted house story. It has some great ideas, but lacks narrative tension, emotional heft, and gothic tone. A few clever twists and a strong protagonist lift it slightly, but it never quite delivers on the ideas I had from the premise.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book has some atmosphere, particularly near the conclusion where the tension and mood finally build, but much of the narrative feels overly focused on house repairs rather than haunting. While the premise is promising, it felt like I was reading renovation logistics rather than something emotional or supernatural.
The mystery surrounding Coty is a strong point. His trustworthiness is teased out well and adds needed tension to the story. The protagonist is also consistently portrayed, though her anxiety and OCD feel weakly handled. It felt more a narrative tool than a fully formed part of her character.
I thought including ghost POV chapters a clever twist. However, this book uses diary entries to narrate past events. It stretches plausibility because how can diary entries read like polished prose? This is a huge red flag for me in any book. Putting that to one side, I also thought the emotional depth in the present-day timeline underwhelming. The grief, in particular, doesn’t come through strongly, and the overall emotional tone feels muted.
Overall, this is a middle of the road haunted house story. It has some great ideas, but lacks narrative tension, emotional heft, and gothic tone. A few clever twists and a strong protagonist lift it slightly, but it never quite delivers on the ideas I had from the premise.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Press for an ARC of It Was Her House First by Cherie Priest in exchange for honest feedback.
This book felt like sitting down with my best friend over wine as she spills the creepiest, weirdest thing that has ever happened to her - and I was all in. The FMC’s voice was sharp, funny, and intimate, like she was talking just to me and I loved that. The was my first book by this author and I really loved the writing style and the character development was solid.
Now….it is a slow burn in my opinion. The kind where you start wondering if the fire went out halfway in - but hang in there because the ending does pay off. I also think the fact that the ghosts did much of their own storytelling made them relatable characters which ultimately took away from the “scare factor”. Still worth the read and I will definitely be picking up another title by this author.
This book felt like sitting down with my best friend over wine as she spills the creepiest, weirdest thing that has ever happened to her - and I was all in. The FMC’s voice was sharp, funny, and intimate, like she was talking just to me and I loved that. The was my first book by this author and I really loved the writing style and the character development was solid.
Now….it is a slow burn in my opinion. The kind where you start wondering if the fire went out halfway in - but hang in there because the ending does pay off. I also think the fact that the ghosts did much of their own storytelling made them relatable characters which ultimately took away from the “scare factor”. Still worth the read and I will definitely be picking up another title by this author.
June 17, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for a complimentary early release copy of It Was Her House First by Cherie Priest.
It was her house first is a slow paced read, a good majority of the book at least until you get to the half way point is descriptive bits about the houses condition and how Ronnie is going about repairing things. Once the half way point is met the story starts to introduce the haunting aspects of the house, the story picked up for me once these elements were introduced. I liked how the story went about introducing the spirits, it was slow but the way it was written made me want to keep turning the pages to figure out what was going on. The way the book went about revealing things and just the spirits aspects in general were written in a really unique way.
I enjoyed Venita’s diary entries the most, I always love when a book includes a mixed media kind of element! Venita has to be my favorite character from It Was Her House First, I just loved the way Venita carried herself and her glamour. I liked what she had brought/added to the story and I’m happy with how things had tied up with her.
After finishing the book i’m aiming at a high 3 star rating, while I did enjoy many aspects of the book I felt that things could have happened just a bit more sooner. I didn’t completely mind the descriptive house bits but they had gotten a bit repetitive after about the 30 percent mark. The book is told in first person which I don’t mind but the main character does do a talking directly to the reader bit a few times which just isn’t an aspect that I liked.
It was her house first is a slow paced read, a good majority of the book at least until you get to the half way point is descriptive bits about the houses condition and how Ronnie is going about repairing things. Once the half way point is met the story starts to introduce the haunting aspects of the house, the story picked up for me once these elements were introduced. I liked how the story went about introducing the spirits, it was slow but the way it was written made me want to keep turning the pages to figure out what was going on. The way the book went about revealing things and just the spirits aspects in general were written in a really unique way.
I enjoyed Venita’s diary entries the most, I always love when a book includes a mixed media kind of element! Venita has to be my favorite character from It Was Her House First, I just loved the way Venita carried herself and her glamour. I liked what she had brought/added to the story and I’m happy with how things had tied up with her.
After finishing the book i’m aiming at a high 3 star rating, while I did enjoy many aspects of the book I felt that things could have happened just a bit more sooner. I didn’t completely mind the descriptive house bits but they had gotten a bit repetitive after about the 30 percent mark. The book is told in first person which I don’t mind but the main character does do a talking directly to the reader bit a few times which just isn’t an aspect that I liked.
July 26, 2025
#ad much love for my finished copy @poisonedpenpress #partner
It Was Her House First
This house has a past - a past that’ll haunt for all of time. It began in 1932 with a death of a child, a murder, a hanging, threats, and a promise. A legend lives on: anyone who has lived in this house has died. Who will be next?
Now Victoria - who goes by Ronnie - has bought the old house to fix it up and her friend Kate followed her. But people always seem to be dying in this house. Victoria’s brother Ben died recently and Kate was engaged to him. They’re bonded for life, but Victoria got his life insurance money and she used it to buy the house.
Ronnie talks to the past residents’ of this house, but what she doesn’t know is that they are listening back. Trying to communicate.
I fully enjoyed the difference in world view between the 1930’s to current times. I found the story to be engaging and the characters relatable. I also enjoyed how the story unfolded.
Memorable
Worried is proactive, fear is reactive
All the ways of dying 😂😭
New pills, Zen af
Maine
🎧: Also listened to the audio while following along and loved it. Kristen DiMercurio, Cindy Kay, and Mark Bramhall did a fantastic job bringing this book to life. But I particularly loved Mark’s narration - he narrated the Bartholomew Sloan chapters and I found his voice to be soothing and alluring. He added an extra star to this review! That’s the first that’s happened. I loved how each perspective had its own narrator. Just a fab listen.
It Was Her House First
This house has a past - a past that’ll haunt for all of time. It began in 1932 with a death of a child, a murder, a hanging, threats, and a promise. A legend lives on: anyone who has lived in this house has died. Who will be next?
Now Victoria - who goes by Ronnie - has bought the old house to fix it up and her friend Kate followed her. But people always seem to be dying in this house. Victoria’s brother Ben died recently and Kate was engaged to him. They’re bonded for life, but Victoria got his life insurance money and she used it to buy the house.
Ronnie talks to the past residents’ of this house, but what she doesn’t know is that they are listening back. Trying to communicate.
I fully enjoyed the difference in world view between the 1930’s to current times. I found the story to be engaging and the characters relatable. I also enjoyed how the story unfolded.
Memorable
Worried is proactive, fear is reactive
All the ways of dying 😂😭
New pills, Zen af
Maine
🎧: Also listened to the audio while following along and loved it. Kristen DiMercurio, Cindy Kay, and Mark Bramhall did a fantastic job bringing this book to life. But I particularly loved Mark’s narration - he narrated the Bartholomew Sloan chapters and I found his voice to be soothing and alluring. He added an extra star to this review! That’s the first that’s happened. I loved how each perspective had its own narrator. Just a fab listen.
April 24, 2025
It Was Her House First by Sherry Priest, Ronnie recently bought an old Hollywood star‘s house in Seattle it is rundown her best friend Kate helps her move in and even though the second floor rains down on her blowup mattress as she sleeps she couldn’t love the house more. The house was once owned by Vanita a silent movie star who moved there when the house was new with her husband Oscar and daughter Priscilla. Many strange things happen including her sing the ghost of Bartholomew Jones, Oscar‘s best friend and someone who stayed quite frequently with the family. She also finds Venita‘s diary a ghost cat and much much more. Throughout the book we find out how the knee’s daughter died as well as Bonita herself and the famous PI Bartholomew Jones. which means a lot to Ronnie and Katie‘s new friend Cody. Bart was his uncle and he claims the only one from the family who did anything great with his life. I don’t know what else to put in this review because it’s truly was an awesome read not to mention a very funny one and oh how much did I love Ronnie she was so funny. Her dry sarcasm leaked off the page and I was loving all of it. much more than scary this book was totally entertaining I cannot think of one negative thing to say about it I loved it loved it loved it. I absolutely love that every time Bonita appeared her house was intact and the way it was in 1932IDKY but that totally thrilled me. I know this is a horrible review but OMG it was a great great read! #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,#SherryPriest, #ItWasHerHouseFirst,
November 15, 2025
I didn't love it. I didn't hate it. I finished it... that counts for something, right? Idk, it just wasn't what I was expecting, I guess. Which says a lot on its own because I have no idea WHAT I was expecting.
July 27, 2025
4.5 stars
IT WAS HER HOUSE FIRST, is the third novel I have read by author Cherie Priest. This time, a derelict house, haunted by the ghosts of its past, is purchased by Ronnie, a woman who wishes to renovate it, after the death of her brother leaves her an unexpected inheritance.
There are several things I especially loved about this one. The first is Ronnie's character--she suffers from OCD, extreme anxiety, and has mentally come to terms with what she "should" say to people so that they don't question her sanity. I felt she was so "real" in terms of how we sometimes hide our true feeling/actions if they are not "mainstream", for fear of being singled out. Second, the mystery of the ghost's "reasons" for being there, and how they came about their untimely deaths. (This timeline was a particular favorite of mine!) Venita Rost was once a film star actress, later married to her husband, Oscar, with a beautiful daughter, Pricilla. A friend of her husband's, Bartholomew Sloan, is the key to setting events in motion that resulted in tragedy. Third, the way that the past events were blended in with the present circumstances really held my attention, and kept me wanting to read on.
Enter a human factor with his own agenda, and Ronnie has a malevolent haunted house on one hand, and potential "live" danger on the other.
The beginning was a little slow to kick in, but as soon as the spirits began making their "appearances", and Ronnie's character started fleshing out, the novel was all uphill, fascinating backstories, and a great pacing/balancing of past and present.
"I suppose we get the ghosts we get, not necessarily the ones we want."
Overall, a very unique haunted house novel, one that had me thinking about it even when not reading. The characters (living and "dead") were especially well done, and I was emotionally invested in all of them. The ending was not what I expected, but actually even better than one I had imagined.
Recommended!
IT WAS HER HOUSE FIRST, is the third novel I have read by author Cherie Priest. This time, a derelict house, haunted by the ghosts of its past, is purchased by Ronnie, a woman who wishes to renovate it, after the death of her brother leaves her an unexpected inheritance.
There are several things I especially loved about this one. The first is Ronnie's character--she suffers from OCD, extreme anxiety, and has mentally come to terms with what she "should" say to people so that they don't question her sanity. I felt she was so "real" in terms of how we sometimes hide our true feeling/actions if they are not "mainstream", for fear of being singled out. Second, the mystery of the ghost's "reasons" for being there, and how they came about their untimely deaths. (This timeline was a particular favorite of mine!) Venita Rost was once a film star actress, later married to her husband, Oscar, with a beautiful daughter, Pricilla. A friend of her husband's, Bartholomew Sloan, is the key to setting events in motion that resulted in tragedy. Third, the way that the past events were blended in with the present circumstances really held my attention, and kept me wanting to read on.
Enter a human factor with his own agenda, and Ronnie has a malevolent haunted house on one hand, and potential "live" danger on the other.
The beginning was a little slow to kick in, but as soon as the spirits began making their "appearances", and Ronnie's character started fleshing out, the novel was all uphill, fascinating backstories, and a great pacing/balancing of past and present.
"I suppose we get the ghosts we get, not necessarily the ones we want."
Overall, a very unique haunted house novel, one that had me thinking about it even when not reading. The characters (living and "dead") were especially well done, and I was emotionally invested in all of them. The ending was not what I expected, but actually even better than one I had imagined.
Recommended!
May 13, 2025
Venita Rost was a silent film star. Now her malevolent spirit lurks in her cliffside mansion, a home that is in serious disrepair. Those who have lived there since have all met a gruesome end. That includes Inspector Bartholomew Sloan who has watched along all these years as Venita acts upon her wrath.
Now the house has another new owner. This time it's Ronnie Mitchell, a grieving woman who desires to renovate the house. When a young man comes knocking something besides dust and mold is stirred up.
This is a different type of haunted house story from anything I've read before. I think this is supposed to be a horror novel but I didn't find it scary at all. It's sad at times but I actually found it kind of cozy. This might be due to the main character who is not your typical heroine.
We get chapters from Ronnie's perspective and Bartholomew Sloan who is watching from the shadows. We also get to read Venita's diary. All of the perspectives were enjoyable to read.
I don't feel the blurb is completely accurate. I feel I was missing some answers to things Bartholomew Sloan brought up. While I enjoyed the ending I was slightly underwhelmed. That being said, I did enjoy It Was Her House First. I recommend it to readers who love ghost stories.
3.5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read!
Now the house has another new owner. This time it's Ronnie Mitchell, a grieving woman who desires to renovate the house. When a young man comes knocking something besides dust and mold is stirred up.
This is a different type of haunted house story from anything I've read before. I think this is supposed to be a horror novel but I didn't find it scary at all. It's sad at times but I actually found it kind of cozy. This might be due to the main character who is not your typical heroine.
We get chapters from Ronnie's perspective and Bartholomew Sloan who is watching from the shadows. We also get to read Venita's diary. All of the perspectives were enjoyable to read.
I don't feel the blurb is completely accurate. I feel I was missing some answers to things Bartholomew Sloan brought up. While I enjoyed the ending I was slightly underwhelmed. That being said, I did enjoy It Was Her House First. I recommend it to readers who love ghost stories.
3.5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read!
June 23, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Rating:- ⭐⭐⭐.5/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Okay, so I've never read a horror book before. This was my first time and the reason that I picked this book was because of the author. I read her book, 'I am princess X' in school and I thought that it was a really good book and I started liking books written by this author.
Now, while the princess X book was a bit childish, probably for kids, this one was a bit mature, more like a young adult or made for teenagers.
So, as I said, this was my first horror book and starting with a book like this, was a good start cuz I really liked it. I mean, this book not only had the POV of Ronnie (the new owner of the house) but it also had the POV's of two ghosts who lived in and haunted the house.
If you're looking for a book that is paranormal that you can read like, in a day or two, you should definitely give this book a try!
Rating:- ⭐⭐⭐.5/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Okay, so I've never read a horror book before. This was my first time and the reason that I picked this book was because of the author. I read her book, 'I am princess X' in school and I thought that it was a really good book and I started liking books written by this author.
Now, while the princess X book was a bit childish, probably for kids, this one was a bit mature, more like a young adult or made for teenagers.
So, as I said, this was my first horror book and starting with a book like this, was a good start cuz I really liked it. I mean, this book not only had the POV of Ronnie (the new owner of the house) but it also had the POV's of two ghosts who lived in and haunted the house.
If you're looking for a book that is paranormal that you can read like, in a day or two, you should definitely give this book a try!
April 13, 2025
This was an intriguing and unique style of book compared to what I have read before. The story incorporates several different media styles, which kept it engaging and fresh! I love a good ghost story, and this one delivered. With multiple POVs, we get Ronnie's perspective as she recently bought a home and is grieving. I enjoyed Ronnie's chapters. Bart's chapters, however, were rather dull and sometimes moved at a snail's pace, although they did have some spooky moments, albeit toned down. Lastly, Sloane's chapters were the highlight. I loved getting inside the ghost's mind and that aspect was fascinating!
The beginning of the book was a bit of a struggle, but if you push through, the ending is strong and absolutely amazing! If you're looking for a different kind of ghost story that includes revenge and various intriguing aspects, then you should pick this one up. Just remember to stick with it for that ending—it makes the book! Thank you, Poisoned Pen Press and Netgalley, for the opportunity to read and review this one. It was definitely a spooktacular experience!
The beginning of the book was a bit of a struggle, but if you push through, the ending is strong and absolutely amazing! If you're looking for a different kind of ghost story that includes revenge and various intriguing aspects, then you should pick this one up. Just remember to stick with it for that ending—it makes the book! Thank you, Poisoned Pen Press and Netgalley, for the opportunity to read and review this one. It was definitely a spooktacular experience!
December 3, 2025
"I was starting to smell like the house, like it's been absorbing me, or infecting me, or . . . whatever metaphor makes you happiest, I guess."
aaaaaand that's me DNFing at 36%. I've seen other reviewers compare this to T. Kingfisher (derogatory) and that's almost the vibe, but not quite: more accurately, this book is the bones of a good ghost story utterly foiled by the fact that the author cannot, CANNOT let it just be scary without popping in every few pages to completely deflate any tension by making a snarky aside or putting an OOC sentiment in a character's mouth to ensure that you, the reader, knows where we stand. Why is the ghost of a 1930s private eye telling me about how "women have always required an excess of caution to survive," or noting that no gentleman would ever disrespect someone's chosen name. Why is the dialogue so painfully on the nose that the characters feel like they're talking in tweets. Just why.
aaaaaand that's me DNFing at 36%. I've seen other reviewers compare this to T. Kingfisher (derogatory) and that's almost the vibe, but not quite: more accurately, this book is the bones of a good ghost story utterly foiled by the fact that the author cannot, CANNOT let it just be scary without popping in every few pages to completely deflate any tension by making a snarky aside or putting an OOC sentiment in a character's mouth to ensure that you, the reader, knows where we stand. Why is the ghost of a 1930s private eye telling me about how "women have always required an excess of caution to survive," or noting that no gentleman would ever disrespect someone's chosen name. Why is the dialogue so painfully on the nose that the characters feel like they're talking in tweets. Just why.
July 14, 2025
This would be a great read for summerween or spooky season. You have ghosts, a decrepit house, and a questionable character.
Ronnie has an idea that her new buy is haunted but once she finds a shrine in her basement and a waterlogged diary things start to take a turn. She finds herself talking to ghosts and one who usually hates everyone takes a liking to her. Along the way Coty enters the chat and Ronnie can tell he's not 100% honest.
I found myself really enjoying the plot but Ronnie would frustrate me with her not trusting her gut. I def related to the anxiety and OCD. I loved that the story is told from Ronnie's POV, a ghost's POV, and fairy entries. I wish there was a little more development with the deal with the devil. Since that seemed to be a driving point for a character it's didn't seem as important. All and all a solid read.
Thank you poison pen press for the gifted book.
Ronnie has an idea that her new buy is haunted but once she finds a shrine in her basement and a waterlogged diary things start to take a turn. She finds herself talking to ghosts and one who usually hates everyone takes a liking to her. Along the way Coty enters the chat and Ronnie can tell he's not 100% honest.
I found myself really enjoying the plot but Ronnie would frustrate me with her not trusting her gut. I def related to the anxiety and OCD. I loved that the story is told from Ronnie's POV, a ghost's POV, and fairy entries. I wish there was a little more development with the deal with the devil. Since that seemed to be a driving point for a character it's didn't seem as important. All and all a solid read.
Thank you poison pen press for the gifted book.
July 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this fun take on the haunted house, combined with bad players, both living and dead. The main character, Ronnie, has an interesting backstory with the loss of her brother and her struggles with anxiety. Equally entertaining was the secondary cast connected to the house Ronnie bought with her inheritance. Danger looms throughout the story, maintaining tension throughout as Ronnie unpuzzles the mystery of her new resident ghosts and tries to survive them.
August 8, 2025
3.5⭐️
I enjoyed this! The plot was fairly unique for being a haunted house style book. I was expecting something a little more spooky, but overall this was a fun one!
I enjoyed this! The plot was fairly unique for being a haunted house style book. I was expecting something a little more spooky, but overall this was a fun one!
July 19, 2025
Ah yes, the ole’ summerween vibes.
It Was Her House First is the story of a house with a lot of secrets. This immediately started with a bang and I loved the idea of our current day MC being so self-sufficient and smart. It’s not a common trope in haunted house stories, if we’re being real. Love to see a reno queen.
I did think that the story lagged a bit in the middle, it didn’t keep up that terrifying, ghost riddled feel. I think it could have used a few more scares and eerie feelings.
Ultimately, this was a fun book. Great for a quick creepy read, and there was enough intrigue to keep the story going. Lots of people with secrets and lots of layers to discover!
⭐⭐⭐.5
Available July 22, 2025
Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press for a free advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
It Was Her House First is the story of a house with a lot of secrets. This immediately started with a bang and I loved the idea of our current day MC being so self-sufficient and smart. It’s not a common trope in haunted house stories, if we’re being real. Love to see a reno queen.
I did think that the story lagged a bit in the middle, it didn’t keep up that terrifying, ghost riddled feel. I think it could have used a few more scares and eerie feelings.
Ultimately, this was a fun book. Great for a quick creepy read, and there was enough intrigue to keep the story going. Lots of people with secrets and lots of layers to discover!
⭐⭐⭐.5
Available July 22, 2025
Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press for a free advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 30, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with this e-arc in exchange for an honest review
I didn't really read the whole synopsis, all I know is that a haunted house is involved, then a mystery that was set in the past. I'll be say I'm glad I didn't, because I'll be even more disappointed if I read it. Especially this part: "Venita's fury awakens, and a deadly game unfolds." Venita's fury wasn't really seen until the end and the deadly game is not entirely missing, but again present in the last chapters. I'll try to break the synopsis down.
THE BEAUTIFUL HOME. I'll start with this one because I almost DNF'd this one because all of the talk of rotting wood, broken pipes, and needing renovation. The first 20% of this book just bored me to depth. There's nothing eye-catchy, nothing really interesting. I skimmed the first few chapters so I didn't really know, how beautiful the house is... the writing didn't really do it for me.
RONNIE, THE GRIEVING WOMAN. Our main character is Ronnie and aside from the background story that she's grieving, she wasn't really fleshed out that well. She's just became an investigator of the the book's mystery (by mostly reading a diary) and a bit of a skeptic. But she didn't really grieve that much, the person she's grieving wasn't even mentioned that much or became the topic of the conversation, except for the initial one. She even withheld this info by the 12% mark, because she's not ready to talk about it, and later revealed it (to us the readers) on the 20% mark. That's just 8% of withheld revelation and if I remember correctly she didn't talk about it in depth again.
VENITA, THE "FURY". As a furious ghost, the paranormal things that happened is pretty much mild, There's no strong hallucinations of torture or death, no jumpscaring our characters, no flinging objects, etc. She just appears here and there. And also there's a cat. Her story was told in a diary.
THE DIARY.
BART SLOAN, THE ETERNAL NEMESIS. We got the other side of the story/mystery from his perspective. Once again as a ghost, he's not really fleshed out. He's just a character that creates this mysterious atmosphere, until it's time for the revelation, where he reveals his side of the story. That's the one time that he's got some character, especially since his position is a complicated one. I would like some more scenes with him and Venita especially since he's described as the "Eternal Nemesis" but again nothing.
, THE THEME?. The three characters, Ronnie, Venita, and Bart all experienced
THE OTHER PRESENT DAY CHARACTERS. Kate is just bad and again not fleshed out, she could easily be just Friend #1. She's the one that creates tension for some stuffs to happen (a usual horror trope), like That's just so questionable, again horror trope. Coty is
I didn't really read the whole synopsis, all I know is that a haunted house is involved, then a mystery that was set in the past. I'll be say I'm glad I didn't, because I'll be even more disappointed if I read it. Especially this part: "Venita's fury awakens, and a deadly game unfolds." Venita's fury wasn't really seen until the end and the deadly game is not entirely missing, but again present in the last chapters. I'll try to break the synopsis down.
THE BEAUTIFUL HOME. I'll start with this one because I almost DNF'd this one because all of the talk of rotting wood, broken pipes, and needing renovation. The first 20% of this book just bored me to depth. There's nothing eye-catchy, nothing really interesting. I skimmed the first few chapters so I didn't really know, how beautiful the house is... the writing didn't really do it for me.
RONNIE, THE GRIEVING WOMAN. Our main character is Ronnie and aside from the background story that she's grieving, she wasn't really fleshed out that well. She's just became an investigator of the the book's mystery (by mostly reading a diary) and a bit of a skeptic. But she didn't really grieve that much, the person she's grieving wasn't even mentioned that much or became the topic of the conversation, except for the initial one. She even withheld this info by the 12% mark, because she's not ready to talk about it, and later revealed it (to us the readers) on the 20% mark. That's just 8% of withheld revelation and if I remember correctly she didn't talk about it in depth again.
VENITA, THE "FURY". As a furious ghost, the paranormal things that happened is pretty much mild, There's no strong hallucinations of torture or death, no jumpscaring our characters, no flinging objects, etc. She just appears here and there. And also there's a cat. Her story was told in a diary.
THE DIARY.
BART SLOAN, THE ETERNAL NEMESIS. We got the other side of the story/mystery from his perspective. Once again as a ghost, he's not really fleshed out. He's just a character that creates this mysterious atmosphere, until it's time for the revelation, where he reveals his side of the story. That's the one time that he's got some character, especially since his position is a complicated one. I would like some more scenes with him and Venita especially since he's described as the "Eternal Nemesis" but again nothing.
, THE THEME?. The three characters, Ronnie, Venita, and Bart all experienced
THE OTHER PRESENT DAY CHARACTERS. Kate is just bad and again not fleshed out, she could easily be just Friend #1. She's the one that creates tension for some stuffs to happen (a usual horror trope), like That's just so questionable, again horror trope. Coty is
July 17, 2025
4.5 stars
The nitty-gritty: A twisty haunted house story with lots of surprises, It Was Her House First is a suspenseful thriller with engaging characters—both living and dead.
I’m shocked to admit this is my first time reading Cherie Priest, and now I need to catch up with her extensive backlist! It Was Her House First was fantastic, a haunted house story that mixes home renovation and ghosts in some unique ways. If you enjoyed The September House, I think this will work for you too, although the books are very different and I don’t want to mislead you by comparing them.
The story revolves around an old mansion in the Seattle area that has just been purchased by Ronnie Mitchell. Ronnie recently lost her brother Ben in a freak accident and was shocked when he left all his money to her, and so she impulsively decides to buy Amundson House sight unseen in an auction—and wins. The house is literally falling apart, with extensive water damage, a bad roof and even a huge hole in the floor of an upstairs bedroom. Ronnie has inherited everything left in the house, dead rats and all—as well as a few ghosts.
It turns out the house has quite the history. In the 1930s, it used to belong to the beautiful film star Venita Amundson, her husband Oscar, and their little girl Priscilla. But after a series of tragic events, which involved Oscar’s good friend Bartholomew Sloan, the entire family perished—including Sloan. Now, in addition to the moldering walls and discarded furniture, the house is also home to the ghosts of Venita and Sloan, which is one reason it’s been so hard to sell.
Armed with a team of specialty contractors and her good friend Kate, Ronnie is determined to bring the house up to specs and restore it to its former glory. But when an outside threat upsets her plans, Ronnie just might need some help from the dead.
This was so much fun! Priest is a seasoned writer who really knows her craft, which makes the reading experience even better. I loved her take on the haunted house trope, and while some elements might be familiar, she did some interesting things with the ghosts that made her story feel fresh. For example, the ghost of Bartholomew Sloan adds his voice in alternating chapters, and he has a big secret that he teases until late in the story, adding a bit of mystery and menace to the tale. Sloan’s chapters are a great source of information about the past and what really happened to Venita, Oscar and Priscilla, and I loved the way his story slowly unfolds, drawing the reader into the sordid mystery surrounding those events.
Ronnie is also a fantastic character, and most of the story is told from her first person perspective. She has a guilty secret that ties into her brother’s death, and she’s trying to make amends by using his money in a way he would appreciate (he was the one who got her interested in construction work and remodeling). She also has chronic anxiety and is very honest with the way she deals with it. She’s smart and tough and isn’t afraid of the ghosts, and I really liked her for that! Ronnie is a bit of an unreliable narrator, however, as she drinks quite a bit and takes edibles at times, so sometimes it’s not clear whether she’s actually seeing the ghosts or simply dreaming. Normally that kind of vague storytelling would be a negative for me, but here it worked.
Hovering over the story is the ghost of Venita, a powerful presence even though she doesn’t appear until later. Ronnie finds her old, waterlogged diary in the attic, which reveals several shocking secrets about her death. Pages of the diary are scattered throughout the book, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
And of course, if you’re a fan of home renovations, Priest infuses her story with lots of well researched details. Ronnie has a background in construction, even if she isn’t a licensed contractor herself, and not only that but she can envision the house’s original beauty and wants to bring it back to those standards.
I loved the exciting build up to the end and a thrilling confrontation between Ronnie, the ghosts and that “threat” I mentioned earlier. Even better, the resolution was so satisfying, and while I won’t give anything specific away, I will say the way things ended up with the ghosts made me smile. Readers who love character driven stories with plenty of mystery will love this book.
Big thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy.
The nitty-gritty: A twisty haunted house story with lots of surprises, It Was Her House First is a suspenseful thriller with engaging characters—both living and dead.
I’m shocked to admit this is my first time reading Cherie Priest, and now I need to catch up with her extensive backlist! It Was Her House First was fantastic, a haunted house story that mixes home renovation and ghosts in some unique ways. If you enjoyed The September House, I think this will work for you too, although the books are very different and I don’t want to mislead you by comparing them.
The story revolves around an old mansion in the Seattle area that has just been purchased by Ronnie Mitchell. Ronnie recently lost her brother Ben in a freak accident and was shocked when he left all his money to her, and so she impulsively decides to buy Amundson House sight unseen in an auction—and wins. The house is literally falling apart, with extensive water damage, a bad roof and even a huge hole in the floor of an upstairs bedroom. Ronnie has inherited everything left in the house, dead rats and all—as well as a few ghosts.
It turns out the house has quite the history. In the 1930s, it used to belong to the beautiful film star Venita Amundson, her husband Oscar, and their little girl Priscilla. But after a series of tragic events, which involved Oscar’s good friend Bartholomew Sloan, the entire family perished—including Sloan. Now, in addition to the moldering walls and discarded furniture, the house is also home to the ghosts of Venita and Sloan, which is one reason it’s been so hard to sell.
Armed with a team of specialty contractors and her good friend Kate, Ronnie is determined to bring the house up to specs and restore it to its former glory. But when an outside threat upsets her plans, Ronnie just might need some help from the dead.
This was so much fun! Priest is a seasoned writer who really knows her craft, which makes the reading experience even better. I loved her take on the haunted house trope, and while some elements might be familiar, she did some interesting things with the ghosts that made her story feel fresh. For example, the ghost of Bartholomew Sloan adds his voice in alternating chapters, and he has a big secret that he teases until late in the story, adding a bit of mystery and menace to the tale. Sloan’s chapters are a great source of information about the past and what really happened to Venita, Oscar and Priscilla, and I loved the way his story slowly unfolds, drawing the reader into the sordid mystery surrounding those events.
Ronnie is also a fantastic character, and most of the story is told from her first person perspective. She has a guilty secret that ties into her brother’s death, and she’s trying to make amends by using his money in a way he would appreciate (he was the one who got her interested in construction work and remodeling). She also has chronic anxiety and is very honest with the way she deals with it. She’s smart and tough and isn’t afraid of the ghosts, and I really liked her for that! Ronnie is a bit of an unreliable narrator, however, as she drinks quite a bit and takes edibles at times, so sometimes it’s not clear whether she’s actually seeing the ghosts or simply dreaming. Normally that kind of vague storytelling would be a negative for me, but here it worked.
Hovering over the story is the ghost of Venita, a powerful presence even though she doesn’t appear until later. Ronnie finds her old, waterlogged diary in the attic, which reveals several shocking secrets about her death. Pages of the diary are scattered throughout the book, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
And of course, if you’re a fan of home renovations, Priest infuses her story with lots of well researched details. Ronnie has a background in construction, even if she isn’t a licensed contractor herself, and not only that but she can envision the house’s original beauty and wants to bring it back to those standards.
I loved the exciting build up to the end and a thrilling confrontation between Ronnie, the ghosts and that “threat” I mentioned earlier. Even better, the resolution was so satisfying, and while I won’t give anything specific away, I will say the way things ended up with the ghosts made me smile. Readers who love character driven stories with plenty of mystery will love this book.
Big thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy.
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