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Blackwater
A baby will never be born at Blackwater.
There is much that heavily pregnant Grace still doesn't know about her new husband King's background. So, when word comes that King's father is dying, Grace is eager to accompany him to his childhood home, Blackwater, located in a remote part of Tasmania.
Things go badly from the start. The house is in terrible repair, King's dying father yells at Grace to leave and King's twin sister, Ruth, seems disturbed by Grace's presence. After his father's death, King convinces Grace they must stay and help Ruth settle the estate, but as time stretches on he grows strange and distant. When Grace learns about Blackwater's dark history, she begins to fear that it is the house itself exerting an evil influence on her husband.
Feeling increasingly isolated, and with the birth of her child looming, Grace knows she must uncover the secrets of Blackwater if she hopes to free her family from its grip.
There is much that heavily pregnant Grace still doesn't know about her new husband King's background. So, when word comes that King's father is dying, Grace is eager to accompany him to his childhood home, Blackwater, located in a remote part of Tasmania.
Things go badly from the start. The house is in terrible repair, King's dying father yells at Grace to leave and King's twin sister, Ruth, seems disturbed by Grace's presence. After his father's death, King convinces Grace they must stay and help Ruth settle the estate, but as time stretches on he grows strange and distant. When Grace learns about Blackwater's dark history, she begins to fear that it is the house itself exerting an evil influence on her husband.
Feeling increasingly isolated, and with the birth of her child looming, Grace knows she must uncover the secrets of Blackwater if she hopes to free her family from its grip.
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First published May 30, 2023
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February 23, 2024I am not rating this as I didn’t even get a quarter way through it, I knew this was not for me in the early chapters I tried.
May 25, 2023
Grace and King return to King’s childhood home in Tasmania, an old and creepy house that is in a state of disrepair. His father is dying and they’ve returned to be there for him. Also living in the house is Ruth, King’s twin sister, a character who is largely spoken about but rarely seen.
Grace is seven months pregnant, has trouble moving around without feeling ill and has an instant feeling of foreboding when she enters the old house.
Her state of mind is not helped when she starts talking to some of the locals who recount rumours and superstitions about the house and its inhabitants. Early on, there is quite a bit of mystery surrounding Ruth, especially given that Grace has not seen her despite being there for a couple of days, and King appears to change the subject whenever her name comes up.
This is a first person account told from Grace’s perspective. Although she is itching to finally meet the evasive Ruth, when she does she’s kind of sorry she did. She’s also more than a little alarmed at the change coming over King as he becomes distracted, manic, prone to wandering in the middle of the night and falling into random moments of deep confusion. And no matter how much she pleads with him to leave, his obstinance becomes a sticking point.
It’s difficult to decide whether to be completely frustrated with Grace’s repeated pleas to leave Blackwater (yet she stays) or be impressed by her sense of duty when she decides to remain with her husband.
There is a history to the house, a history that is deeply disturbing and, if the tales are to be believed, could prove to be extremely dangerous for Grace. By doing her own checking with some of the locals she learns more and more about the house and its inhabitants over the years, ratcheting up her fears with all manner of dread building up inside her.
Right from the start the house is given a sinister, almost otherworldly personality that offers a past steeped in pain and suffering…
“There are ruins of several other buildings near the house…In another setting the ruins might be romantic, but this was part of a convict outstation ... On the walls is mustard-coloured embossed wallpaper, heavy and cloying, and in places the plaster is soft and damp. The room smells, impossibly, like wet dog.”
This is a strong story of suspense that makes use of the historical background of Tasmania as the basis for the growing feelings of unease that pervade every page. You can see the change in King’s mental state the longer they stay in the house. It has the effect of him withdrawing both physically and emotionally from Grace. The result: Grace is in a creepy house, effectively on her own. 7 months pregnant with the knowledge that a maxim for the place is “A baby will never be born at Blackwater”. (Yikes)
A real strength of this story lies in Jacqueline Ross’ highly descriptive prose when it comes to the house itself. It virtually becomes an immersive experience as Grace ventures into each room for the first time. From the rank smells emanating from rooms that have been closed for years to the clouds of fleas rising from the carpets when they’re disturbed , the rot, dust and bits falling off. Through all of this you get a complete picture of just how run down and dangerous the place is.
This is a dramatically compelling book with a well-constructed plot that had me whizzing through the pages at a frantic pace. It’s your typical slow burn, never a comfortable ride but always powerful in its imagery.
My thanks to NetGalley and Affirm Press for the opportunity to read, enjoy and review a cope of the digital ARC of this book.
Grace is seven months pregnant, has trouble moving around without feeling ill and has an instant feeling of foreboding when she enters the old house.
Her state of mind is not helped when she starts talking to some of the locals who recount rumours and superstitions about the house and its inhabitants. Early on, there is quite a bit of mystery surrounding Ruth, especially given that Grace has not seen her despite being there for a couple of days, and King appears to change the subject whenever her name comes up.
This is a first person account told from Grace’s perspective. Although she is itching to finally meet the evasive Ruth, when she does she’s kind of sorry she did. She’s also more than a little alarmed at the change coming over King as he becomes distracted, manic, prone to wandering in the middle of the night and falling into random moments of deep confusion. And no matter how much she pleads with him to leave, his obstinance becomes a sticking point.
It’s difficult to decide whether to be completely frustrated with Grace’s repeated pleas to leave Blackwater (yet she stays) or be impressed by her sense of duty when she decides to remain with her husband.
There is a history to the house, a history that is deeply disturbing and, if the tales are to be believed, could prove to be extremely dangerous for Grace. By doing her own checking with some of the locals she learns more and more about the house and its inhabitants over the years, ratcheting up her fears with all manner of dread building up inside her.
Right from the start the house is given a sinister, almost otherworldly personality that offers a past steeped in pain and suffering…
“There are ruins of several other buildings near the house…In another setting the ruins might be romantic, but this was part of a convict outstation ... On the walls is mustard-coloured embossed wallpaper, heavy and cloying, and in places the plaster is soft and damp. The room smells, impossibly, like wet dog.”
This is a strong story of suspense that makes use of the historical background of Tasmania as the basis for the growing feelings of unease that pervade every page. You can see the change in King’s mental state the longer they stay in the house. It has the effect of him withdrawing both physically and emotionally from Grace. The result: Grace is in a creepy house, effectively on her own. 7 months pregnant with the knowledge that a maxim for the place is “A baby will never be born at Blackwater”. (Yikes)
A real strength of this story lies in Jacqueline Ross’ highly descriptive prose when it comes to the house itself. It virtually becomes an immersive experience as Grace ventures into each room for the first time. From the rank smells emanating from rooms that have been closed for years to the clouds of fleas rising from the carpets when they’re disturbed , the rot, dust and bits falling off. Through all of this you get a complete picture of just how run down and dangerous the place is.
This is a dramatically compelling book with a well-constructed plot that had me whizzing through the pages at a frantic pace. It’s your typical slow burn, never a comfortable ride but always powerful in its imagery.
My thanks to NetGalley and Affirm Press for the opportunity to read, enjoy and review a cope of the digital ARC of this book.
December 26, 2023
While I appreciate this is an attempt at a modern-day Australian twist on the old gothic romantic suspense novel, it just doesn't work, because the tropes that made sense back in the day don't make any sense now. Usually, the heroine is at the mercy of circumstances way out of her control - for example, back in the days of gothic literature, there were no mobile phones. Our protagonist, Grace, is only at the mercy of her own, unrelenting stupidity, and it got old quick.
Grace has married King (Kingsley) Hammond. There is a nineteen year age gap between them, but she is totally and utterly in love with him. She follows him back to his childhood home of Blackwater in Tasmania, as his father is ill. Indeed, his father soon dies, and King must stay to sort out the estate. The only other person at Blackwater is King's strange sister, Ruth. The house is dilapidated and not fit for a pregnant woman to stay in, but Grace does so, because she loves her husband sooo much, even though he's turning into a strange, distant version of himself, and Ruth continues to get stranger and stranger.
The book simply can't get past the fact that it is all too easy for Grace to leave. She can hop in her car any time she wants and get the fuck out of dodge. I could understand the first couple of times why loving her husband would keep her hanging around, but by the fifteenth time he has emotionally blackmailed her or gaslit her into staying, I was simply fed up. There's emotional support and then there's just willful stupidity. Grace fell way too easily into the latter. The plot pads itself out by Grace investigating the history of Blackwater and chatting to various locals, but it's all a bit pointless because it doesn't lead anywhere and Grace really should by now have gotten the fuck out of there.
The book treads uneasily between psychological suspense and possible supernatural elements, and never really commits to anything. We don't get any answers as to why the house would bring on such psychosis in King, which could have been useful in at least letting the reader suspend disbelief that Grace would hang around for so long, despite the house barely being livable and being freaked out by its sordid convict history.
It's a quick read, and despite being overly descriptive, gets a good feel for its creepy location. But overall it's very repetitive. Grace hates being at Blackwater, wants to leave, and gets emotionally blackmailed and gaslit by King into staying. Rinse and repeat. Some extra points for not being a retread of every other thriller being released these days, at least.
Grace has married King (Kingsley) Hammond. There is a nineteen year age gap between them, but she is totally and utterly in love with him. She follows him back to his childhood home of Blackwater in Tasmania, as his father is ill. Indeed, his father soon dies, and King must stay to sort out the estate. The only other person at Blackwater is King's strange sister, Ruth. The house is dilapidated and not fit for a pregnant woman to stay in, but Grace does so, because she loves her husband sooo much, even though he's turning into a strange, distant version of himself, and Ruth continues to get stranger and stranger.
The book simply can't get past the fact that it is all too easy for Grace to leave. She can hop in her car any time she wants and get the fuck out of dodge. I could understand the first couple of times why loving her husband would keep her hanging around, but by the fifteenth time he has emotionally blackmailed her or gaslit her into staying, I was simply fed up. There's emotional support and then there's just willful stupidity. Grace fell way too easily into the latter. The plot pads itself out by Grace investigating the history of Blackwater and chatting to various locals, but it's all a bit pointless because it doesn't lead anywhere and Grace really should by now have gotten the fuck out of there.
The book treads uneasily between psychological suspense and possible supernatural elements, and never really commits to anything. We don't get any answers as to why the house would bring on such psychosis in King, which could have been useful in at least letting the reader suspend disbelief that Grace would hang around for so long, despite the house barely being livable and being freaked out by its sordid convict history.
It's a quick read, and despite being overly descriptive, gets a good feel for its creepy location. But overall it's very repetitive. Grace hates being at Blackwater, wants to leave, and gets emotionally blackmailed and gaslit by King into staying. Rinse and repeat. Some extra points for not being a retread of every other thriller being released these days, at least.
April 13, 2025
3,0 ✨✨✨
(Audiobook)
(Audiobook)
August 2, 2023
Review to come
June 23, 2023
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
I found the secrets of Blackwater house and it’s residents intriguing! Blackwater by Jacqueline Ross is a dark and sinister story inspired by the horror of Tasmania’s convict history.
A perfect read for those that enjoy a gothic atmosphere, mystery and family drama. The setting is in Tasmania on an errie remote part of the Tasman peninsula and close to Port Arthur.
Heavily pregnant and not long married, Grace accompanies her husband King to his childhood home ‘Blackwater’ where King’s father is on his deathbed. The house is in absolute disrepair, has a ghoulish past and there appears to be an evil influence in the house.
King’s eccentric twin sister Ruth also lives in the house and seems agitated with Grace’s presence. As their time together lingers in the house clearing out the family home Kings behaviour suddenly becomes erratic. Will Grace be able to escape the house before it’s too late?
I found the atmosphere unsettling as too the imagery of the conditions in the home and some of the characters. I was startled learning about the secret of the house and how it connects with the forgotten history of Tasmania’s convict outstations for women.
I really enjoyed this read and at the same time learnt something new and morbid about Aussie history!
Publication date 30 May 2023
Publisher Affirm Press
I was so excited to get my hands on a copy of Blackwater, a huge thanks to Affirm Press
I found the secrets of Blackwater house and it’s residents intriguing! Blackwater by Jacqueline Ross is a dark and sinister story inspired by the horror of Tasmania’s convict history.
A perfect read for those that enjoy a gothic atmosphere, mystery and family drama. The setting is in Tasmania on an errie remote part of the Tasman peninsula and close to Port Arthur.
Heavily pregnant and not long married, Grace accompanies her husband King to his childhood home ‘Blackwater’ where King’s father is on his deathbed. The house is in absolute disrepair, has a ghoulish past and there appears to be an evil influence in the house.
King’s eccentric twin sister Ruth also lives in the house and seems agitated with Grace’s presence. As their time together lingers in the house clearing out the family home Kings behaviour suddenly becomes erratic. Will Grace be able to escape the house before it’s too late?
I found the atmosphere unsettling as too the imagery of the conditions in the home and some of the characters. I was startled learning about the secret of the house and how it connects with the forgotten history of Tasmania’s convict outstations for women.
I really enjoyed this read and at the same time learnt something new and morbid about Aussie history!
Publication date 30 May 2023
Publisher Affirm Press
I was so excited to get my hands on a copy of Blackwater, a huge thanks to Affirm Press
July 8, 2023
A good Gothic tale focused on a haunted house set in wintry rural Tasmania that made me shiver, especially because I've been to the specific place this story is set in, IN RAINY, QUIET WINTER.
Besides being a mysterious Gothic story, the book also delves into the convict history of Tasmania, which I've dipped my toes into while I was there, but there's always more to learn. While harrowing, I loved this book and I think it might stay with me for awhile.
Besides being a mysterious Gothic story, the book also delves into the convict history of Tasmania, which I've dipped my toes into while I was there, but there's always more to learn. While harrowing, I loved this book and I think it might stay with me for awhile.
August 28, 2024
I borrowed this from the local library to read on my phone when I found myself caught short with no book to read.
I initially felt that these characters were a little unbelievable and shallow.. Grace is married to King, who is older than her, and she is expecting their first baby, but she knows very little about his family and has never met any of them. King's father is dying so they go to Tasmania to spend his final days with him. As soon as they arrive at the rundown, isolated home where King grew up it's obvious that this is indeed a very strange family and there are secrets that both the family and the house seem to be hiding. With grim connections to Tasmania's convict history and the infamous Female Factories of the early 19th century, the eerie past of both the house and the family are soon making Grace feel extremely unsettled and threatened.
This story moves at a cracking pace (after a dubious start) and the descriptions of the house and it's state of disrepair and uncleanliness are enough to make your skin crawl.
A great little Gothic thriller full of some really unsettling imagery that hooked me and held my attention right up to the last creepy pages.
I initially felt that these characters were a little unbelievable and shallow.. Grace is married to King, who is older than her, and she is expecting their first baby, but she knows very little about his family and has never met any of them. King's father is dying so they go to Tasmania to spend his final days with him. As soon as they arrive at the rundown, isolated home where King grew up it's obvious that this is indeed a very strange family and there are secrets that both the family and the house seem to be hiding. With grim connections to Tasmania's convict history and the infamous Female Factories of the early 19th century, the eerie past of both the house and the family are soon making Grace feel extremely unsettled and threatened.
This story moves at a cracking pace (after a dubious start) and the descriptions of the house and it's state of disrepair and uncleanliness are enough to make your skin crawl.
A great little Gothic thriller full of some really unsettling imagery that hooked me and held my attention right up to the last creepy pages.
August 19, 2023
This book had an amazing opportunity to be an intriguing thriller/suspense novel but unfortunately it fell way short. I found that the characters were really annoying, making it hard for me to finish the book.
August 30, 2023
This book was incredible! Keeps you hooked through the whole book, I could hardly put it down and once I got half way I had to stay up and finish it! So gripping and chilling. Got me out of a reading slump and would recommend this to anyone chasing a fast paced thriller
July 5, 2023
After a difficult upbringing in state care, Grace has finally found a place of happy stability with her new husband, Kingsley. So, she supportively accompanies him back to his family home in rural Tasmania to visit his estranged father who is on his death bed. What is supposed to be a short visit is extended when Kingsley’s father dies during their visit. Despite being heavily pregnant with their first child, Grace agrees to stay and help finalise the estate.
The family home, Blackwater, has a troubled history though as a former “female factory” where Australia’s female convicts were sent to work during the nineteenth century. There are also rumours about a missing girl, not to mention Kingsley’s strange, reclusive twin sister, Ruth. Before Grace settles in to help Kingsley clear out the house, she is warned by a local clairvoyant of the dangers the house harbours.
This 2023 novel by Jacqueline Ross uses all the tropes of the gothic genre to provide an entertaining, slow building, unsettling genre piece. This includes the dark history, haunted house, inclement weather, mysterious noises, metonomy of gloom, tyrannical males and women in distress. Tasmania’s wild winter weather and sad convict history are used effectively to create a sense of misery and anguish. The setting of the house is also really well executed – it is filthy, leaky, mouldy, dusty, with hidden cabinets and underground spaces, as well as secret notes hidden in floors and wallpaper. The supernatural is only ever suggested though Ross manages to add creepy touches throughout, especially in the form of Kingley’s increasingly erratic behaviour and the secretive and odd preoccupations of his sister.
Ross’s faithfulness to the gothic also comes through with the cliche characterisation. As both heroine and damsel in distress, Grace’s decision making is often flawed and frustrating. So too is that of Kingsley, who presents at times as doting husband, and others as possessed tyrant. All the secondary characters are merely tools for Grace to gain further information about the mysterious family history.
This novel shows how the gothic genre is still accessible and can be adapted to anywhere and anytime. I particularly enjoyed the twist at the end which sends a distinct chill down the spine. This was a great winter school holiday read!
The family home, Blackwater, has a troubled history though as a former “female factory” where Australia’s female convicts were sent to work during the nineteenth century. There are also rumours about a missing girl, not to mention Kingsley’s strange, reclusive twin sister, Ruth. Before Grace settles in to help Kingsley clear out the house, she is warned by a local clairvoyant of the dangers the house harbours.
This 2023 novel by Jacqueline Ross uses all the tropes of the gothic genre to provide an entertaining, slow building, unsettling genre piece. This includes the dark history, haunted house, inclement weather, mysterious noises, metonomy of gloom, tyrannical males and women in distress. Tasmania’s wild winter weather and sad convict history are used effectively to create a sense of misery and anguish. The setting of the house is also really well executed – it is filthy, leaky, mouldy, dusty, with hidden cabinets and underground spaces, as well as secret notes hidden in floors and wallpaper. The supernatural is only ever suggested though Ross manages to add creepy touches throughout, especially in the form of Kingley’s increasingly erratic behaviour and the secretive and odd preoccupations of his sister.
Ross’s faithfulness to the gothic also comes through with the cliche characterisation. As both heroine and damsel in distress, Grace’s decision making is often flawed and frustrating. So too is that of Kingsley, who presents at times as doting husband, and others as possessed tyrant. All the secondary characters are merely tools for Grace to gain further information about the mysterious family history.
This novel shows how the gothic genre is still accessible and can be adapted to anywhere and anytime. I particularly enjoyed the twist at the end which sends a distinct chill down the spine. This was a great winter school holiday read!
August 28, 2023
I devoured this! It would have been a "one day read" if it weren't for other obligations. It took me a minute to get used to the first person, present tense writing, but once you get into it, this perspective really sucks you in and makes you experience all the emotions. Blackwater is an excellent thriller, with twists that have you guessing all the time while simultaneously trying to work out what's going on. Haunted or just crazy? You tell me.
September 19, 2023
I wasn’t sure how if I was going to enjoy this book at first . Given the main character is called King 🙃 and it’s double spaced .
But it turns out his name is Kingsley so that’s okay lol .
I was actually surprised by the book , had a creepy twin thing, a creepy house thing , and a creepy continuity of secrets.
The end felt a bit rushed however .
A solid 3 .
But it turns out his name is Kingsley so that’s okay lol .
I was actually surprised by the book , had a creepy twin thing, a creepy house thing , and a creepy continuity of secrets.
The end felt a bit rushed however .
A solid 3 .
September 29, 2023
3.5 ⭐️ wtf did I just read, creeped me the hell out
July 29, 2023
Creepy, creepy weird, gothic...love it!
Pregnant Grace accompanies her new husband King to visit his dying father in this gross old house, Blackwater in remote Tasmania.
Once there, up pops Kings oddball twin sister, a bunch of creepy dolls and weird townsfolk.
Jacqueline Ross is my new favourite author! With grotesque imagery that literally makes you dry reach! Ross weaves this awesome story. She sets up everyone perfectly and you get sucked in to the rotting, mice ridden old house full of disgusting grossness! So good!
It's chilling and weird but I am completely obsessed with it!
Highly recommend 5 stars!
Pregnant Grace accompanies her new husband King to visit his dying father in this gross old house, Blackwater in remote Tasmania.
Once there, up pops Kings oddball twin sister, a bunch of creepy dolls and weird townsfolk.
Jacqueline Ross is my new favourite author! With grotesque imagery that literally makes you dry reach! Ross weaves this awesome story. She sets up everyone perfectly and you get sucked in to the rotting, mice ridden old house full of disgusting grossness! So good!
It's chilling and weird but I am completely obsessed with it!
Highly recommend 5 stars!
June 30, 2023
Creepy as all hell. I raced through this. Our protagonist Grace is not stupid, she is aware of the horror tropes and traps that surround her circumstances. Despite her wariness of Blackwater, she’s powerless to escape it. The mystery at the heart of the novel is enthralling, and Grace’s pregnant state keeps the reader in a state of constant terrified vigilance for the safety of her body and the infant growing inside it. Also, the descriptions of food were disgusting. Had a great time, 10/10 will reread.
August 10, 2023
Devoured this in one day, loved it.
March 19, 2024
Blackwater, by Melbourne-based author Jacqueline Ross, is a psychological thriller bordering horror story set in contemporary Tasmania. Specifically, it is situated in the Tasman Peninsula, with Port Arthur being the first European settlement there.
While the story is inspired by the peninsula’s dark past as a penal colony, it draws our attention to a relatively less explored part of this history – the convict women and the so-called “female factories”.
The story is perhaps influenced by Dephne du Maurier’s 1938 Gothic novel Rebecca – with a twist. Here, the first-person narrator Grace, heavily pregnant, accompanies her husband King to visit his dying father. Also residing in the dilapidated and ominously named family home “Blackwater” is King’s eccentric twin sister Ruth.
Grace waits for King to put the property on the market after his father’s death, but stories of mysterious deaths and disappearances throughout the history of the house begin to emerge among the locals. Worse, King starts developing bizarre behavioural and psychological patterns. Even more frightening is Ruth’s increasing hostility towards Grace and her unborn child.
“A baby will never be born at Blackwater.” As Grace desperately tries to protect her baby, we cannot help but wonder whether the house is haunted.
The author does a fine job depicting the sad legacy of Tasmania’s “female factories”, making it reasonable to assume that, like radiation residues, all that misery and suffering would surely have some impact on the physical surroundings.
We are therefore reminded of classic Gothic/horror novels such as Henry James’s The Turn of the Screw, Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House, Stephen King’s The Shining, and even Susan Hill’s The Woman in Black.
However, as described by novelist Charlotte Northedge via The Guardian, houses are such a central part of our lives, “to the extent that a new genre of domestic noir has emerged in the last decade, as writers explore fears around home ownership, family breakdown and marital disharmony”.
Northedge quotes horror author Joe Hill as saying: “Houses aren’t haunted – people are.” In Blackwater, Grace, already stressed by her pregnancy, finds herself trapped in an unknown and unwelcome house, surrounded by strangers. Not only does her unfamiliarity with her husband’s background contribute to her insecurity about their marriage, but her discovery of the plight of convict women in the area further exacerbate her fear for the safety of her baby.
With that said, fans of psychological thrillers with a hint of the supernatural will find this story highly enjoyable. Readers may also want to try the audiobook, which is superbly narrated by Arianwen Parkes Lockwood. The monotone voice of Ruth – and that scary little song she sings near the end of the story – is particularly chilling.
Indeed, there is something about first-person narratives in fiction that is surprisingly suited for audiobooks, as if we are listening to real people describing their adventures and experiencing their fears and doubts in real time. In this sense, thrillers seem to be a perfect genre for audiobook listeners.
Note: This book review was published under the title “A thriller set in Tasmania” by Ranges Trader Star Mail, October 17, 2023, P.18.
While the story is inspired by the peninsula’s dark past as a penal colony, it draws our attention to a relatively less explored part of this history – the convict women and the so-called “female factories”.
The story is perhaps influenced by Dephne du Maurier’s 1938 Gothic novel Rebecca – with a twist. Here, the first-person narrator Grace, heavily pregnant, accompanies her husband King to visit his dying father. Also residing in the dilapidated and ominously named family home “Blackwater” is King’s eccentric twin sister Ruth.
Grace waits for King to put the property on the market after his father’s death, but stories of mysterious deaths and disappearances throughout the history of the house begin to emerge among the locals. Worse, King starts developing bizarre behavioural and psychological patterns. Even more frightening is Ruth’s increasing hostility towards Grace and her unborn child.
“A baby will never be born at Blackwater.” As Grace desperately tries to protect her baby, we cannot help but wonder whether the house is haunted.
The author does a fine job depicting the sad legacy of Tasmania’s “female factories”, making it reasonable to assume that, like radiation residues, all that misery and suffering would surely have some impact on the physical surroundings.
We are therefore reminded of classic Gothic/horror novels such as Henry James’s The Turn of the Screw, Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House, Stephen King’s The Shining, and even Susan Hill’s The Woman in Black.
However, as described by novelist Charlotte Northedge via The Guardian, houses are such a central part of our lives, “to the extent that a new genre of domestic noir has emerged in the last decade, as writers explore fears around home ownership, family breakdown and marital disharmony”.
Northedge quotes horror author Joe Hill as saying: “Houses aren’t haunted – people are.” In Blackwater, Grace, already stressed by her pregnancy, finds herself trapped in an unknown and unwelcome house, surrounded by strangers. Not only does her unfamiliarity with her husband’s background contribute to her insecurity about their marriage, but her discovery of the plight of convict women in the area further exacerbate her fear for the safety of her baby.
With that said, fans of psychological thrillers with a hint of the supernatural will find this story highly enjoyable. Readers may also want to try the audiobook, which is superbly narrated by Arianwen Parkes Lockwood. The monotone voice of Ruth – and that scary little song she sings near the end of the story – is particularly chilling.
Indeed, there is something about first-person narratives in fiction that is surprisingly suited for audiobooks, as if we are listening to real people describing their adventures and experiencing their fears and doubts in real time. In this sense, thrillers seem to be a perfect genre for audiobook listeners.
Note: This book review was published under the title “A thriller set in Tasmania” by Ranges Trader Star Mail, October 17, 2023, P.18.
November 10, 2024
Blackwater effectively merges gothic horror and psychological thriller, drawing dark inspiration from the miseries inflicted upon female convicts in the colonial era and the generational trauma that affects one’s family.
The story is told by Grace, who is 7 months pregnant and travels to Tasmania with her husband, King as they revisit King’s childhood home, an old, creepy house, that is in desperate need of repair, and to also support King’s dying father.
A real strength of this story lies in Jacqueline Ross’ highly descriptive writing as she personifies the house itself. As you learn, alongside Grace, about the deeply disturbing history of the house, Ross makes you believe that the house has a sinister, almost paranormal personality steeped in pain and suffering. Each time the characters enter ‘Blackwater’, you equally form a sense of foreboding as they venture through the old, haunted house. Ross creates such eery, mysterious, disgustingly horrifying imagery as she paints a complete picture of just how run down and dangerous this place really is. From the rank smells of desolate rooms to the clouds of disturbed vermin and insects, it astounded me how Grace braved visiting the house let alone, King’s twin sister Ruth and their father living there. I strongly suggest not to eat whilst reading this book 🤮🤮🤮
This is a strong story of suspense that juxtaposes the colonial, historical background of Tasmania with the growing, emotional impact on the characters’ in present day. This is proven in the character development, especially King’s, as you start to see the effect on the energy from the house completely takes over him. The longer they stay in the house, the more it severely changes King’s mental state as he becomes manic, confused and manipulative as opposed to the supportive, doting partner Grace once knew of him beforehand.
It is easy to become frustrated in Grace’s repetitive pleas to leave Blackwater as she is quickly persuaded by King to stay. King’s state of obstinate narcissim throughout the story becomes so obvious to the reader that it adds to the tension and suspense on the house’s psychological and emotional hold on the characters.
This was a dramatically compelling book with a deeply immersive, well constructed plot that had me hooked throughout the entire reading, including such powerful imagery that takes you through a thrilling, spooky ride of the senses!
The story is told by Grace, who is 7 months pregnant and travels to Tasmania with her husband, King as they revisit King’s childhood home, an old, creepy house, that is in desperate need of repair, and to also support King’s dying father.
A real strength of this story lies in Jacqueline Ross’ highly descriptive writing as she personifies the house itself. As you learn, alongside Grace, about the deeply disturbing history of the house, Ross makes you believe that the house has a sinister, almost paranormal personality steeped in pain and suffering. Each time the characters enter ‘Blackwater’, you equally form a sense of foreboding as they venture through the old, haunted house. Ross creates such eery, mysterious, disgustingly horrifying imagery as she paints a complete picture of just how run down and dangerous this place really is. From the rank smells of desolate rooms to the clouds of disturbed vermin and insects, it astounded me how Grace braved visiting the house let alone, King’s twin sister Ruth and their father living there. I strongly suggest not to eat whilst reading this book 🤮🤮🤮
This is a strong story of suspense that juxtaposes the colonial, historical background of Tasmania with the growing, emotional impact on the characters’ in present day. This is proven in the character development, especially King’s, as you start to see the effect on the energy from the house completely takes over him. The longer they stay in the house, the more it severely changes King’s mental state as he becomes manic, confused and manipulative as opposed to the supportive, doting partner Grace once knew of him beforehand.
It is easy to become frustrated in Grace’s repetitive pleas to leave Blackwater as she is quickly persuaded by King to stay. King’s state of obstinate narcissim throughout the story becomes so obvious to the reader that it adds to the tension and suspense on the house’s psychological and emotional hold on the characters.
This was a dramatically compelling book with a deeply immersive, well constructed plot that had me hooked throughout the entire reading, including such powerful imagery that takes you through a thrilling, spooky ride of the senses!
December 10, 2023
From one prison to another, “Blackwater” tells the tale of Grace and her husband King as they return to King’s family home, Blackwater, in a remote part of Tasmania. King’s father is about to die, and the house is in a state of shambles, with King’s twin sister reclusively tucked away in there as well. The atmosphere is filled with drama, mystery, a spooky history and evil permeating the ruins.
Blackwater was once an outstation for female convicts in the colonial era, and its history permeates every wall and floorboard. There were secrets emerging from the house and its connection to its sinister history. This history was chilling and disturbing, and pieces of it are uncovered as the story progressed. Grace initially tried to see through the gloominess of the house but learned very quickly that was worse than she could ever imagine. And at the same time, Grace was struggling with her pregnancy and looming due date as much as she struggled with the history of the house, especially when faced with horrors like dolls lined up in rows, with rotting food smeared on their faces.
The relationship between Ruth and Grace was like a modern-day mirror of Mrs Danvers and the protagonist from Rebecca. It was unsettling at the very least, as was the relationship between King and Ruth. The themes of dysfunctional families and relationships were core to this story; even King and Grace’s connection seemed oddly out of tune until the very end.
This was an atmospheric drama set in Australia, and for those who like a bit of gothic horror, it may be right up your alley.
Blackwater was once an outstation for female convicts in the colonial era, and its history permeates every wall and floorboard. There were secrets emerging from the house and its connection to its sinister history. This history was chilling and disturbing, and pieces of it are uncovered as the story progressed. Grace initially tried to see through the gloominess of the house but learned very quickly that was worse than she could ever imagine. And at the same time, Grace was struggling with her pregnancy and looming due date as much as she struggled with the history of the house, especially when faced with horrors like dolls lined up in rows, with rotting food smeared on their faces.
The relationship between Ruth and Grace was like a modern-day mirror of Mrs Danvers and the protagonist from Rebecca. It was unsettling at the very least, as was the relationship between King and Ruth. The themes of dysfunctional families and relationships were core to this story; even King and Grace’s connection seemed oddly out of tune until the very end.
This was an atmospheric drama set in Australia, and for those who like a bit of gothic horror, it may be right up your alley.
October 14, 2023
Blackwater is a book that deserves so much more buzz and hype! I am so glad that I discovered Blackwater on my Goodreads recommendations. I listened to the audiobook version and really enjoyed the narrator. She did an excellent job at really grabbing my attention. The way that Jacqueline Ross describes the stench, rot, filth and disgust in Blackwater almost made it palpable.
I was instantly intrigued to learn what the deal was with Blackwater and why King didn’t want to take his wife, Grace to meet his father or his sister who lived there. You begin to find out what happened at Blackwater by some of the locals, while Grace spends some time on her own away from King while he cleans up Blackwater and gets his fathers affairs in order. Every time Grace confronts King with something she heard from the locals at the pub he won’t elaborate and says he will tell her later and quickly will change the subject. Grace soon realizes that this is not going to be a quick few-day trip and that King continues to prolong their time they’re cleaning up. She discovers King isn’t actually cleaning up at all and he’s doing things around the property that are useless and he’s completely wasting time. You can tell how frustrated she is with him but also tries to keep the peace - as King becomes completely manic and almost like a different person when she brings up that what he’s working on is pretty useless and not helping get them out of there any quicker. Any time she tells King she doesn’t feel comfortable staying in the house he completely loses it and begs and begs for her to stay and not leave him. She makes the decision to stay and to help cleaning and packing away some of the rooms.
Her interactions with King’s twin sister, Ruth, are always strange and she notices that they have a very strong bond and it’s a side of her husband she’s never seen before. Things begin to put her in danger the longer she stays and the more she discovers while ‘cleaning up’ and poking around the house. Grace has an accident and is told that she may not go back home - not via air or ferry - for the next 2 weeks as it may put her and her baby in danger. They are stuck in Tasmania. Stuck in Blackwater for even longer.
Will No babies ever be born at Blackwater?
I finished this audiobook in less than a day. I could not stop listening. Every part was really edge of your seat.
I was instantly intrigued to learn what the deal was with Blackwater and why King didn’t want to take his wife, Grace to meet his father or his sister who lived there. You begin to find out what happened at Blackwater by some of the locals, while Grace spends some time on her own away from King while he cleans up Blackwater and gets his fathers affairs in order. Every time Grace confronts King with something she heard from the locals at the pub he won’t elaborate and says he will tell her later and quickly will change the subject. Grace soon realizes that this is not going to be a quick few-day trip and that King continues to prolong their time they’re cleaning up. She discovers King isn’t actually cleaning up at all and he’s doing things around the property that are useless and he’s completely wasting time. You can tell how frustrated she is with him but also tries to keep the peace - as King becomes completely manic and almost like a different person when she brings up that what he’s working on is pretty useless and not helping get them out of there any quicker. Any time she tells King she doesn’t feel comfortable staying in the house he completely loses it and begs and begs for her to stay and not leave him. She makes the decision to stay and to help cleaning and packing away some of the rooms.
Her interactions with King’s twin sister, Ruth, are always strange and she notices that they have a very strong bond and it’s a side of her husband she’s never seen before. Things begin to put her in danger the longer she stays and the more she discovers while ‘cleaning up’ and poking around the house. Grace has an accident and is told that she may not go back home - not via air or ferry - for the next 2 weeks as it may put her and her baby in danger. They are stuck in Tasmania. Stuck in Blackwater for even longer.
Will No babies ever be born at Blackwater?
I finished this audiobook in less than a day. I could not stop listening. Every part was really edge of your seat.
April 18, 2023
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book from my local bookstore, who knew it would be right up my alley. The story follows Grace, a pregnant woman who finds herself dragged to her husband King's creepy family home in Tasmania when they learn of his father's impending death. King's twin sister Ruth also lives at the house, which has a dark history as a former home for female convicts.
The book is classified as Gothic Noir, and it definitely delivers on the genre's key elements. The mystery element keeps readers engaged as Grace attempts to unravel the secrets of the house and its troubled family. The unsettling atmosphere is enhanced by references to Port Arthur, creepy rumours from the superstitious locals, and the eerie handmade cemetery that Ruth has added to the property. Decay and madness are pervasive themes, epitomized by Ruth and hinted at in King's behaviour. Strange accidents occur frequently, adding to the air of mystery and menace.
One of the highlights of the book is the complex dynamic between Ruth and Grace. Their awkward and intriguing relationship adds depth and richness to the story. The fast-paced finale is also a thrill ride.
While the strange relationship between King and Ruth gives off a slight incestuous vibe, it ultimately adds to the overall puzzle of the story. Overall, this is an enjoyable and easy read, perfect for fans of The Shining or The Haunting of Hill House. It makes for a great palette cleanser and a solid addition to the Gothic Noir genre.
The book is classified as Gothic Noir, and it definitely delivers on the genre's key elements. The mystery element keeps readers engaged as Grace attempts to unravel the secrets of the house and its troubled family. The unsettling atmosphere is enhanced by references to Port Arthur, creepy rumours from the superstitious locals, and the eerie handmade cemetery that Ruth has added to the property. Decay and madness are pervasive themes, epitomized by Ruth and hinted at in King's behaviour. Strange accidents occur frequently, adding to the air of mystery and menace.
One of the highlights of the book is the complex dynamic between Ruth and Grace. Their awkward and intriguing relationship adds depth and richness to the story. The fast-paced finale is also a thrill ride.
While the strange relationship between King and Ruth gives off a slight incestuous vibe, it ultimately adds to the overall puzzle of the story. Overall, this is an enjoyable and easy read, perfect for fans of The Shining or The Haunting of Hill House. It makes for a great palette cleanser and a solid addition to the Gothic Noir genre.
May 29, 2023
‘King’s father is dying, and we have been summoned to his deathbed.’
We first meet Grace and her husband Kingsley (known as King) as they are driving to his childhood home, Blackwater, on Tasmania’s Tasman Peninsula. King left Blackwater as a young man and Grace, recently married and now heavily pregnant, knows very little about King’s family and upbringing.
When they arrive at Blackwater, they find the house is a large, damp, and derelict wreck. King’s father yells at Grace to leave and King’s twin sister Ruth seems disturbed. Grace was hoping to return home to Melbourne, but after his father died, King insists that they stay to settle the estate and prepare the house for sale.
Things get worse. As she cleans out the house, Grace makes some gruesome discoveries. And some of the locals share stories which reveal Blackwater’s dark history. Add to this the fact that King is becoming distant, and Ruth continues to behave very strangely, and you have all the ingredients of a gothic horror story.
And what about Grace’s baby? You’ll need to read it to find out for yourself.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Affirm Press for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
We first meet Grace and her husband Kingsley (known as King) as they are driving to his childhood home, Blackwater, on Tasmania’s Tasman Peninsula. King left Blackwater as a young man and Grace, recently married and now heavily pregnant, knows very little about King’s family and upbringing.
When they arrive at Blackwater, they find the house is a large, damp, and derelict wreck. King’s father yells at Grace to leave and King’s twin sister Ruth seems disturbed. Grace was hoping to return home to Melbourne, but after his father died, King insists that they stay to settle the estate and prepare the house for sale.
Things get worse. As she cleans out the house, Grace makes some gruesome discoveries. And some of the locals share stories which reveal Blackwater’s dark history. Add to this the fact that King is becoming distant, and Ruth continues to behave very strangely, and you have all the ingredients of a gothic horror story.
And what about Grace’s baby? You’ll need to read it to find out for yourself.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Affirm Press for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
June 29, 2023
✍️ This story follows Grace who is heavily pregnant. Her Husband King's Father has passed away so they go together to Tasmania to King's family home called Blackwater which was a former home to female convicts. Grace knows very little about King's childhood but once she arrives at the creepy house she finds herself in a strange place and begins to find things out that she never imagined would be possible.
Dark, Peculiar, Creepy, "Blackwater" was an absolutely FABULOUS Story which gave me all the shivering feels of being in the midst of the picturesque Blackwater Mansion with its mysterious and strange occupants and past history full of secrets that are still hidden in the depths.
The Arcane storyline mixed with the bizarre characters held me in complete curiosity and enthralment from beginning to end. An utterly clever and entertaining story that I loved.
The whole time I was reading I felt a sense of urgency and disturbance for what was happening right till the end.
The adept way the story was written and expressed was on point. An intense read. Relished it.
Highly Recommend!
Dark, Peculiar, Creepy, "Blackwater" was an absolutely FABULOUS Story which gave me all the shivering feels of being in the midst of the picturesque Blackwater Mansion with its mysterious and strange occupants and past history full of secrets that are still hidden in the depths.
The Arcane storyline mixed with the bizarre characters held me in complete curiosity and enthralment from beginning to end. An utterly clever and entertaining story that I loved.
The whole time I was reading I felt a sense of urgency and disturbance for what was happening right till the end.
The adept way the story was written and expressed was on point. An intense read. Relished it.
Highly Recommend!
October 18, 2024
2 ⭐️
I read this book in two days, purely because I couldn’t wait to be done with it. Knowing it was an Australian thriller, I was so excited to read it. However, I was sorely disappointed.
Like every Australian book I’ve read, it felt like one of those reads where the author feels the need to cram random Australian references into it. Whether it be food, phrases etc. I still struggle to understand why Port Arthur was mentioned so many times, despite it having absolutely nothing to do with the house. It just left me feeling really irritated… as did the writing style.
The story itself was also so dull and boring. The characters were all insufferable, and the story just kept feeling like it was repeating (i.e., husband does something weird, she decides to leave, he emotionally manipulates her, she stays). Why are the characters always so stupid? Just leave!
The only part I enjoyed was the last 30 pages... and sadly, that was rushed so quickly that I had to reread it to understand what happened. Overall, it just fell completely flat.
I read this book in two days, purely because I couldn’t wait to be done with it. Knowing it was an Australian thriller, I was so excited to read it. However, I was sorely disappointed.
Like every Australian book I’ve read, it felt like one of those reads where the author feels the need to cram random Australian references into it. Whether it be food, phrases etc. I still struggle to understand why Port Arthur was mentioned so many times, despite it having absolutely nothing to do with the house. It just left me feeling really irritated… as did the writing style.
The story itself was also so dull and boring. The characters were all insufferable, and the story just kept feeling like it was repeating (i.e., husband does something weird, she decides to leave, he emotionally manipulates her, she stays). Why are the characters always so stupid? Just leave!
The only part I enjoyed was the last 30 pages... and sadly, that was rushed so quickly that I had to reread it to understand what happened. Overall, it just fell completely flat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2023
I'll never look at an historical house in the south of Tasmania the same way again.
The combination of history, family trauma and suspense makes this book a good read. King and Grace return to his childhood home after the death of his father to tie up loose ends and get the estate in order. But there is far more to Blackwater than meets the eye, and as time goes on and Grace sees no end to her visit, the behaviour of her husband becomes impossible to ignore.
Team this with King's too close relationship with his twin sister, Ruth, and the looks she is given by the locals, Grace sets out to find exactly what the past held. But she isn't going to like the answer.
Although this book is set in the 'can a house be evil' trope, and some parts of the narrative are predictable, Blackwater is still an engaging thriller.
The combination of history, family trauma and suspense makes this book a good read. King and Grace return to his childhood home after the death of his father to tie up loose ends and get the estate in order. But there is far more to Blackwater than meets the eye, and as time goes on and Grace sees no end to her visit, the behaviour of her husband becomes impossible to ignore.
Team this with King's too close relationship with his twin sister, Ruth, and the looks she is given by the locals, Grace sets out to find exactly what the past held. But she isn't going to like the answer.
Although this book is set in the 'can a house be evil' trope, and some parts of the narrative are predictable, Blackwater is still an engaging thriller.
October 29, 2024
A delicious read. Sits perfectly in the Australian Gothic genre and mood - possibly a contemporary classic. Incredibly haunting and eerie, beautifully written. Can see inspiration from Shirely Jackson and other seminal figures in the horror/Gothic genre.
I really enjoyed the haunting elements of convict Tasmanian history in the scene setting and overall story. It's such an integral part so carefully weft into the fabric of the story. Incredible. In-depth research to bring characters knowledge to our protagonist.
I do feel like the conclusion is quite rushed and the most implausible way that the story could have lead to its epilogue. But a thrilling end none the less. Defintely requires some suspension of disbelief.
I really enjoyed the haunting elements of convict Tasmanian history in the scene setting and overall story. It's such an integral part so carefully weft into the fabric of the story. Incredible. In-depth research to bring characters knowledge to our protagonist.
I do feel like the conclusion is quite rushed and the most implausible way that the story could have lead to its epilogue. But a thrilling end none the less. Defintely requires some suspension of disbelief.
April 11, 2023
I absolutely loved this gothic/thriller ‘Blackwater’ by Jacqueline Ross.
We follow the story of Grace, a woman heavily pregnant, and her husband Kingsley (aka King) as they go back to his dreaded childhood home to see his father before he dies. While there we meet his creepy twin sister, who if I met in this house I would leave and never come back.
Following the death of his father King inherits the house and wants to fix it up before selling. However, the longer he is there the stranger both King and his sister Ruth become.
I have never wanted to scream at a character to leave so much. Overall I really enjoyed this book and all the gothic horror elements to it. I felt it could have had more jump scares happen to drive Grace to the edge, and for Susie’s storyline to maybe have a bit more significance to the story.
🌟4/5
Thanks to netgalley and affirm press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
We follow the story of Grace, a woman heavily pregnant, and her husband Kingsley (aka King) as they go back to his dreaded childhood home to see his father before he dies. While there we meet his creepy twin sister, who if I met in this house I would leave and never come back.
Following the death of his father King inherits the house and wants to fix it up before selling. However, the longer he is there the stranger both King and his sister Ruth become.
I have never wanted to scream at a character to leave so much. Overall I really enjoyed this book and all the gothic horror elements to it. I felt it could have had more jump scares happen to drive Grace to the edge, and for Susie’s storyline to maybe have a bit more significance to the story.
🌟4/5
Thanks to netgalley and affirm press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
November 21, 2023
This was horrifyingly compelling in a quite disturbing kind of way.
Set in Tasmania, there is a mix of locations mentioned being real and some fictional. Not mentioned by name, but I am pretty sure The Fox and Hounds Hotel was the inspiration for the hotel in the story.
King’s childhood home gave me the absolute creeps, and as for his twin sister Ruth, wow what an interesting character she was.
It was interesting how story brings the past crashing into the present with twists I didn’t see coming until I was upon them.
At 288 pages this one is a quick read perfect for fans of gothic thriller / mysteries.
Set in Tasmania, there is a mix of locations mentioned being real and some fictional. Not mentioned by name, but I am pretty sure The Fox and Hounds Hotel was the inspiration for the hotel in the story.
King’s childhood home gave me the absolute creeps, and as for his twin sister Ruth, wow what an interesting character she was.
It was interesting how story brings the past crashing into the present with twists I didn’t see coming until I was upon them.
At 288 pages this one is a quick read perfect for fans of gothic thriller / mysteries.
June 27, 2023
Well that was one creepy book 😬
Set in an old house in Tasmania, with a horrid history, this is a book that will give you chills.
King inherits his father's house, but what about Ruthie, his twin sister? She has lived there all her life and does not want to leave.
This is a gothic thriller with a twisted twin relationship, some oddball neighbours and a mother to be that will do anything to save her unborn child.
I started this Monday afternoon and finished Tuesday night. It is easy to read, grabbed me by the bloody throat and did not let go until the end.
Set in an old house in Tasmania, with a horrid history, this is a book that will give you chills.
King inherits his father's house, but what about Ruthie, his twin sister? She has lived there all her life and does not want to leave.
This is a gothic thriller with a twisted twin relationship, some oddball neighbours and a mother to be that will do anything to save her unborn child.
I started this Monday afternoon and finished Tuesday night. It is easy to read, grabbed me by the bloody throat and did not let go until the end.
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