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The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond
After a terrible tragedy, governess Julia Pearlie finds herself with no job, home, or references. When she’s offered a position as companion to Miss Olivia Richmond, she’s relieved. But Mistcoate House is full of secrets.
Olivia has a sinister reputation. The locals call her the Mistcoate Witch, thanks to her tarot readings, and her insistence that she can speak to the dead. Her brother, Dr. Richmond, believes this to be girlish fantasy and is looking to Julia to put a stop to it.
Determined to prove herself and shake off her own murky history, Julia sets to work trying to turn Olivia into a proper young lady. However, as she becomes a fixture at Mistcoate, it is soon clear that there may be more to Olivia’s stories than Dr. Richmond would have Julia believe—not least because somehow, Olivia seems to know something of the darkness that Julia desperately hoped she had left behind.
As the danger grows, and the winter chill wraps around the dark woods surrounding Mistcoate, Julia will have to fight to uncover the truth, escape her past—and save herself.
Olivia has a sinister reputation. The locals call her the Mistcoate Witch, thanks to her tarot readings, and her insistence that she can speak to the dead. Her brother, Dr. Richmond, believes this to be girlish fantasy and is looking to Julia to put a stop to it.
Determined to prove herself and shake off her own murky history, Julia sets to work trying to turn Olivia into a proper young lady. However, as she becomes a fixture at Mistcoate, it is soon clear that there may be more to Olivia’s stories than Dr. Richmond would have Julia believe—not least because somehow, Olivia seems to know something of the darkness that Julia desperately hoped she had left behind.
As the danger grows, and the winter chill wraps around the dark woods surrounding Mistcoate, Julia will have to fight to uncover the truth, escape her past—and save herself.
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Published October 31, 2023
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About the author
Louise Davidson
1 book6 followersBorn in 1988, Louise Davidson grew up in Belfast during the troubles with a Catholic mother and a Protestant father.
Louise’s earliest memory is of her parents deciding whether they should drive past a car that was on fire in the streets of Belfast. It was only when she left Belfast to study Creative Writing at University in the UK that Louise realised it was not normal to live in a permanent state of fear and anxiety. She says the sense of dread she has had from a young age drew her to Gothic fiction and is something she has tried to channel into The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond.
Louise was introduced to the idea of tarot, mediums and fortune telling from a young age as her Aunt Pat is an intuitive, with the ability to receive messages from the dead and to predict dreams. Louise grew up watching her aunt predict dreams and pass messages from the dead to bereaved families and this helped her to create the character of Olivia Richmond.
After a career working in theatre production with theatres including Tinder Box and Ransome Theatre in Northern Ireland and Intemission, RSC and the Lyric Hammersmith in London. Louise now teaches English and drama to A-Level students and lives in West London with her husband and stepson. The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is her first novel.
Louise’s earliest memory is of her parents deciding whether they should drive past a car that was on fire in the streets of Belfast. It was only when she left Belfast to study Creative Writing at University in the UK that Louise realised it was not normal to live in a permanent state of fear and anxiety. She says the sense of dread she has had from a young age drew her to Gothic fiction and is something she has tried to channel into The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond.
Louise was introduced to the idea of tarot, mediums and fortune telling from a young age as her Aunt Pat is an intuitive, with the ability to receive messages from the dead and to predict dreams. Louise grew up watching her aunt predict dreams and pass messages from the dead to bereaved families and this helped her to create the character of Olivia Richmond.
After a career working in theatre production with theatres including Tinder Box and Ransome Theatre in Northern Ireland and Intemission, RSC and the Lyric Hammersmith in London. Louise now teaches English and drama to A-Level students and lives in West London with her husband and stepson. The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 17, 2024
If your reading taste at this time of the year is for a chilling mystery with a hint of the supernatural then The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond may be just what you’re looking for.
A remote, slightly rundown house surrounded by thick forest, a girl with intensely pale skin who has been largely shut away from the world because she seems able to see glimpses of individuals’ future (or their pasts), a housekeeper who could give Mrs Danvers from Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca a run for her money when it comes to sinister malice, and in Julia Pearlie a young woman haunted (literally) by recent tragic events.
There are moments of melodrama, some distinctly unpleasant Victorian attitudes to women, a hint of romance, the obligatory secret diary, and plenty of things to send chills up your spine. ‘A dark figure was creeping across the lawn…When I looked again, the lawn was empty.‘
Each chapter is associated with a different Tarot card and there is a list at the end of the book that gives the meanings of the cards. I confess I didn’t have the time to look back and see their relevance to each chapter’s events.
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is the perfect read for a dark October evening, although I suggest you check your doors are locked and your windows closed before settling down to read. Hang on, are you sure that’s a dripping tap and not something more sinister? And what was that scratching sound? Sleep well.
A remote, slightly rundown house surrounded by thick forest, a girl with intensely pale skin who has been largely shut away from the world because she seems able to see glimpses of individuals’ future (or their pasts), a housekeeper who could give Mrs Danvers from Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca a run for her money when it comes to sinister malice, and in Julia Pearlie a young woman haunted (literally) by recent tragic events.
There are moments of melodrama, some distinctly unpleasant Victorian attitudes to women, a hint of romance, the obligatory secret diary, and plenty of things to send chills up your spine. ‘A dark figure was creeping across the lawn…When I looked again, the lawn was empty.‘
Each chapter is associated with a different Tarot card and there is a list at the end of the book that gives the meanings of the cards. I confess I didn’t have the time to look back and see their relevance to each chapter’s events.
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is the perfect read for a dark October evening, although I suggest you check your doors are locked and your windows closed before settling down to read. Hang on, are you sure that’s a dripping tap and not something more sinister? And what was that scratching sound? Sleep well.
November 10, 2023
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is a glorious Gothic novel from debut author Louise Davidson set in the 1890s.
The plot centres around two women. Governess Julia Pearlie and the young woman she has been assigned to coach for a move to London, Olivia Richmond. On arrival at the local village she soon learns that people are afraid of Olivia and many stories are shared about her between the villagers, from her looks to calling her a witch.
It isn’t long before Julia discovers some things about the young woman, including her ability to read Tarot Cards, her trances, and her talking to the dead but things might be more sinister than anyone understands or knows, especially Julia.
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is a book I adored from beginning to end. I felt connected to both Olivia and Julia and could feel the eerie presence on each page.
I loved that each chapter was titled after a Tarot Card which worked perfectly with the plot and that Tarot played a major part in the story.
This is a book that will give you a chill and have your hair standing on end at times. You know something is amiss but never quite what. It is a tremendous read. It’s original, engaging, and had me hooked from the first page.
The plot centres around two women. Governess Julia Pearlie and the young woman she has been assigned to coach for a move to London, Olivia Richmond. On arrival at the local village she soon learns that people are afraid of Olivia and many stories are shared about her between the villagers, from her looks to calling her a witch.
It isn’t long before Julia discovers some things about the young woman, including her ability to read Tarot Cards, her trances, and her talking to the dead but things might be more sinister than anyone understands or knows, especially Julia.
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is a book I adored from beginning to end. I felt connected to both Olivia and Julia and could feel the eerie presence on each page.
I loved that each chapter was titled after a Tarot Card which worked perfectly with the plot and that Tarot played a major part in the story.
This is a book that will give you a chill and have your hair standing on end at times. You know something is amiss but never quite what. It is a tremendous read. It’s original, engaging, and had me hooked from the first page.
December 6, 2023
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is an absolute cracker. It’s dark, spooky and makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. I thought it was brilliant and highly recommend it. My full review is on the My Weekly website.
February 25, 2025
This was really fun! I think this was a case of doing melodramatic stuff well -- sometimes you can have absurd stuff happening, but if it makes sense within the story, it doesn't feel too over-the-top. We have classic Victorian misogyny, women surviving emotionally abusive relationships, ghosts, tarot, tragic suicides, a budding romance, a creepy house, secret diaries, terrifying "medicine" ... there's a lot happening here, but it was pretty good throughout.
I did find the ghosts delightfully creepy.
Also I know this isn't a main focus of the book, but it felt like it did "antagonist with a tragic backstory" quite well. It doesn't justify fully, but it does add depth. I won't specify who that is (if you know you know), but it didn't feel like it came from nowhere and I liked that.
If you're looking for a solid Gothic story, this will definitely scratch that itch.
I did find the ghosts delightfully creepy.
Also I know this isn't a main focus of the book, but it felt like it did "antagonist with a tragic backstory" quite well. It doesn't justify fully, but it does add depth. I won't specify who that is (if you know you know), but it didn't feel like it came from nowhere and I liked that.
If you're looking for a solid Gothic story, this will definitely scratch that itch.
August 5, 2025
A unique, gripping take on the gothic horror genre!
November 8, 2024
After a tragedy upends her life, governess Julia Pearlie is left without a job, a home, no prospects, and most certainly no future. When Julia is offered a position to be a companion to Miss Olivia Richmond, maybe the fates are smiling upon her. Or perhaps not….
Mistcoate House is much more than a manor, it seems to have a life of its own being isolated within the wilds of Norfolk, it longs for company and contains many secrets of its own and it appears Olivia shares a similar reputation should you choose to listen to local gossip that she is a witch who can communicate with the dead. And Olivia agrees with them.
Olivia’s father insists Julia prepare his daughter for society but his embittered housekeeper sees Julia as an intruder, stopping at nothing to expose her past and therefor destroying her. Worse still, Olivia seems to know much more than she should about Julia’s haunted past that she is so desperate to flee from.
As danger grows within the halls of Mistcoate House, the winter chill creeping from the forest into the very foundations, Julia will have no choice but to fight to uncover the truth of just what does Olivia’s father actually have planned for her, evade her past once and for all, and to ultimately save herself. But it will be far from easy should the tarot cards in Olivia’s possession be believed, because should she ignore their warnings, Julia could lose everything she touches.
Harrowing, pacy, gothic, and mysterious, all make for a twisted and gripping read!
Mistcoate House is much more than a manor, it seems to have a life of its own being isolated within the wilds of Norfolk, it longs for company and contains many secrets of its own and it appears Olivia shares a similar reputation should you choose to listen to local gossip that she is a witch who can communicate with the dead. And Olivia agrees with them.
Olivia’s father insists Julia prepare his daughter for society but his embittered housekeeper sees Julia as an intruder, stopping at nothing to expose her past and therefor destroying her. Worse still, Olivia seems to know much more than she should about Julia’s haunted past that she is so desperate to flee from.
As danger grows within the halls of Mistcoate House, the winter chill creeping from the forest into the very foundations, Julia will have no choice but to fight to uncover the truth of just what does Olivia’s father actually have planned for her, evade her past once and for all, and to ultimately save herself. But it will be far from easy should the tarot cards in Olivia’s possession be believed, because should she ignore their warnings, Julia could lose everything she touches.
Harrowing, pacy, gothic, and mysterious, all make for a twisted and gripping read!
March 6, 2024
I'd love to thank the publisher for sending me a copy of this book to review: I had never heard of Moonflower Publishing before, but I was so pleased when this one came in the post! The sprayed black edges and pages of spilled tarot cards added to the mystery and drama of the novel, so I felt that even before I started reading I knew what the vibes of the book would be.
The atmosphere the author created within the book was impeccable: it was moody and sinister and allowed you to experience the same paranoia that Julia felt. Right from page one the pace of the book was moving forward really quickly, with bits of information about Julia and her circumstances being slowly dripped into the narrative. There was the perfect balance of allowing those tidbits of information into the text to keep the reader invested and allowing them to form their own opinions and theories about her backstory. This definitely allowed me to feel more invested in the character journeys!
The whole book is written in a style that is very gothic and very historical, and as the book wants to be both of those things, I'd say that it is, therefore, written very well! The language is very simple and easy to understand, which helps the fast pacing of the novel- I devoured this book over two sittings- but also seems historically accurate to my limited knowledge!
The characters were each very individual, and although they weren't described in a way that would help me to picture them, I felt that I knew them very distinctly. The exception to that is Olivia, who I was able to picture perfectly due to her unusual looks and the constant referring to the jarring paleness of her eyes and hair and skin. Their reactions to the house, Olivia and all of the collective weirdness felt very... not understandable, as such, but reasonable in relation to their own personal experiences. Julia, for example, felt very oppressed by and wary of the reputations of the house and it's inhabitants, until she experiences some unexplained happenings, when that wariness becomes a type of fear.
I wasn't sure of how realistic the relationships between the characters were though; that's the only thing that reduced my enjoyment of the book. If someone who was acting as your mother, and had done for most of your life told you not to interact with the stranger in your home, she wants something from you for her own personal gain, you... wouldn't interact with them, right? And yet this is exactly what Olivia is told about Julia, and yet she immediately throws that warning out the window and starts idolising her companion. As for Julia herself- there is no indication at all that she has overwhelming feelings towards her love interest (whom I shall not disclose for spoiler purposes) until she busts out the 'I love you'.
Overall, I had a lovely experience with this book; it made me look over my shoulder and shiver, but didn't make me loose any sleep. I flew through it when I was reading, but I didn't feel I was unable to put it down. I would happily recommend this book to people, and rate it 3⭐️.
The atmosphere the author created within the book was impeccable: it was moody and sinister and allowed you to experience the same paranoia that Julia felt. Right from page one the pace of the book was moving forward really quickly, with bits of information about Julia and her circumstances being slowly dripped into the narrative. There was the perfect balance of allowing those tidbits of information into the text to keep the reader invested and allowing them to form their own opinions and theories about her backstory. This definitely allowed me to feel more invested in the character journeys!
The whole book is written in a style that is very gothic and very historical, and as the book wants to be both of those things, I'd say that it is, therefore, written very well! The language is very simple and easy to understand, which helps the fast pacing of the novel- I devoured this book over two sittings- but also seems historically accurate to my limited knowledge!
The characters were each very individual, and although they weren't described in a way that would help me to picture them, I felt that I knew them very distinctly. The exception to that is Olivia, who I was able to picture perfectly due to her unusual looks and the constant referring to the jarring paleness of her eyes and hair and skin. Their reactions to the house, Olivia and all of the collective weirdness felt very... not understandable, as such, but reasonable in relation to their own personal experiences. Julia, for example, felt very oppressed by and wary of the reputations of the house and it's inhabitants, until she experiences some unexplained happenings, when that wariness becomes a type of fear.
I wasn't sure of how realistic the relationships between the characters were though; that's the only thing that reduced my enjoyment of the book. If someone who was acting as your mother, and had done for most of your life told you not to interact with the stranger in your home, she wants something from you for her own personal gain, you... wouldn't interact with them, right? And yet this is exactly what Olivia is told about Julia, and yet she immediately throws that warning out the window and starts idolising her companion. As for Julia herself- there is no indication at all that she has overwhelming feelings towards her love interest (whom I shall not disclose for spoiler purposes) until she busts out the 'I love you'.
Overall, I had a lovely experience with this book; it made me look over my shoulder and shiver, but didn't make me loose any sleep. I flew through it when I was reading, but I didn't feel I was unable to put it down. I would happily recommend this book to people, and rate it 3⭐️.
October 31, 2023
Caught up in a family tragedy at her previous position, governess Julia Perlie is unable to find work, and is forced to rely on the charity of her reluctant relatives. When a much needed legacy from her recently departed mother goes entirely to her brother, Julia is desperate to escape her predicament, but without a good reference it is almost impossible to gain employment in another household.
Then a curious chance comes Julia's way. A Dr Richmond requires a companion for his teenage daughter Olivia to prepare her for her upcoming debutante season in London, and he does not seem too concerned about Julia's sketchy references. However, when she arrives at the less than welcoming Mistcoate House in Norfolk, her chance for a new start does not look quite as rosy as she hoped. The house and its inhabitants are eerily sinsiter, and locals whisper that Olivia is cursed, naming her the Mistcoate Witch. Although Julia is initially inclined to agree with Dr Richmond's curt assessment that his daughter's strange ways are down to girlish folly, she cannot deny that Olivia knows rather more about people's private lives than seems usual - including the dark secrets that she is keeping...
In this deliciously creepy debut, Louise Davidson weaves a tale that thrums with oodles of Gothic gorgeousness. Combining elements of compelling mystery and beautifully crafted Victorian ghost story, Davidson channels brooding Bronte-esque atmosphere in her disquieting setting and the Jane Eyre like situation of her protagonist Julia, drawing you in and making you jump at shadows.
As Julia gradually uncovers the weird goings on in the Richmond family, you begin to learn of her past and the tragedy and heartbreak that have marked her, and Davidson injects genuinely terrifying undercurrents of horror that play nicely with the the threads of secrets, lies, passion, betrayal, and spiritualism. There are gripping twists and turns, and you are never quite sure what is real of imagined, but one thing you are sure of is that you desperately need Julia to draw on her courage to foil the plans of the melodramatic villains of the piece.
I could not put this terrifying story down, and absorbed it in a single chilling bite. It is full of menace, and will incite you to indignant rage at the patriarchal injustices Davidson writes about so well, especially when if comes to the horrific treatment of 'difficult' women deemed to be 'hysterical'. The perfect read for spooky season - with a fabulous feminist kick!
Then a curious chance comes Julia's way. A Dr Richmond requires a companion for his teenage daughter Olivia to prepare her for her upcoming debutante season in London, and he does not seem too concerned about Julia's sketchy references. However, when she arrives at the less than welcoming Mistcoate House in Norfolk, her chance for a new start does not look quite as rosy as she hoped. The house and its inhabitants are eerily sinsiter, and locals whisper that Olivia is cursed, naming her the Mistcoate Witch. Although Julia is initially inclined to agree with Dr Richmond's curt assessment that his daughter's strange ways are down to girlish folly, she cannot deny that Olivia knows rather more about people's private lives than seems usual - including the dark secrets that she is keeping...
In this deliciously creepy debut, Louise Davidson weaves a tale that thrums with oodles of Gothic gorgeousness. Combining elements of compelling mystery and beautifully crafted Victorian ghost story, Davidson channels brooding Bronte-esque atmosphere in her disquieting setting and the Jane Eyre like situation of her protagonist Julia, drawing you in and making you jump at shadows.
As Julia gradually uncovers the weird goings on in the Richmond family, you begin to learn of her past and the tragedy and heartbreak that have marked her, and Davidson injects genuinely terrifying undercurrents of horror that play nicely with the the threads of secrets, lies, passion, betrayal, and spiritualism. There are gripping twists and turns, and you are never quite sure what is real of imagined, but one thing you are sure of is that you desperately need Julia to draw on her courage to foil the plans of the melodramatic villains of the piece.
I could not put this terrifying story down, and absorbed it in a single chilling bite. It is full of menace, and will incite you to indignant rage at the patriarchal injustices Davidson writes about so well, especially when if comes to the horrific treatment of 'difficult' women deemed to be 'hysterical'. The perfect read for spooky season - with a fabulous feminist kick!
October 26, 2023
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the publisher.
Enthralling from beginning to end, THE FORTUNES OF OLIVIA RICHMOND by Louise Davidson is everything I hoped it would be and more.
Julia Pearle is in a predicament. After a harrowing ordeal, she finds herself at the mercy of her brother and sister-in-law who no longer wish to have her underfoot. So when she gets offered the position as a companion to a young lady in the countryside, Julia doesn't have much choice. Ready to make a fresh start for herself, Julia is determined to make her new life a success, but as soon as she arrives at the desolate Mistcoate House she realises that this may be more difficult than she could ever imagine.
Not only are money and staff scarce at the manor but her charge, Olivia, has a reputation that precedes her. Nicknamed the Mistcoate Witch, Olivia is both ridiculed and feared by the locals when she reads her cards and speaks of the dead. Julia sees only a young lady who needs kindness and compassion, as well as a proper education befitting her station. Add in a scandalous Aunt, a forgetful old captain, and a bitter housekeeper, and Julia must keep her wits about her at all times. But as Julia begins to settle in and make friends with some of the locals, it soon becomes clear that maybe there is more to Olivia's visions and ramblings than she first thought. When enemies from the present and the past come back to haunt them, will Julia be able to uncover the truth and save those that she has come to care deeply about?
This debut is described as a paranormal period drama and that is the perfect description. The detail, the setting, the characters, and the plot are fresh and engaging, while a thread of unease is effortlessly being spun in the background as you read, ready to pounce and make you shiver at the perfect moments throughout. Julia's character is strong, independent, and extremely intelligent which I enjoyed, and I loved how it worked perfectly with Olivia who seemed quite the opposite in so many ways, yet was just as engaging and compelling in her own way.
THE FORTUNES OF OLIVIA RICHMOND is an excellent story and I cannot wait to read more from Louise Davidson.
Enthralling from beginning to end, THE FORTUNES OF OLIVIA RICHMOND by Louise Davidson is everything I hoped it would be and more.
Julia Pearle is in a predicament. After a harrowing ordeal, she finds herself at the mercy of her brother and sister-in-law who no longer wish to have her underfoot. So when she gets offered the position as a companion to a young lady in the countryside, Julia doesn't have much choice. Ready to make a fresh start for herself, Julia is determined to make her new life a success, but as soon as she arrives at the desolate Mistcoate House she realises that this may be more difficult than she could ever imagine.
Not only are money and staff scarce at the manor but her charge, Olivia, has a reputation that precedes her. Nicknamed the Mistcoate Witch, Olivia is both ridiculed and feared by the locals when she reads her cards and speaks of the dead. Julia sees only a young lady who needs kindness and compassion, as well as a proper education befitting her station. Add in a scandalous Aunt, a forgetful old captain, and a bitter housekeeper, and Julia must keep her wits about her at all times. But as Julia begins to settle in and make friends with some of the locals, it soon becomes clear that maybe there is more to Olivia's visions and ramblings than she first thought. When enemies from the present and the past come back to haunt them, will Julia be able to uncover the truth and save those that she has come to care deeply about?
This debut is described as a paranormal period drama and that is the perfect description. The detail, the setting, the characters, and the plot are fresh and engaging, while a thread of unease is effortlessly being spun in the background as you read, ready to pounce and make you shiver at the perfect moments throughout. Julia's character is strong, independent, and extremely intelligent which I enjoyed, and I loved how it worked perfectly with Olivia who seemed quite the opposite in so many ways, yet was just as engaging and compelling in her own way.
THE FORTUNES OF OLIVIA RICHMOND is an excellent story and I cannot wait to read more from Louise Davidson.
October 28, 2023
I read this fabulous book as a paperback proof copy, but it’s only available in Hardback.
When I took my proof copy out of the envelope and a spider fell out it frightened the living daylights out of me! But I absolutely just loved, loved this debut novel, by Louise Davidson.
Halloween! I love this time of year, it’s dark outside, with the creepy books and films to enjoy and The Fortunes Of Olivia Richmond, is definitely 100% the book to read as we approach Halloween, with a gripping flair of gothic, and paranormal period drama.
It’s clear to me after reading this book, that this darkly gothic historical mystery novel should be made into a scary film.
The day after Julia’s mother’s funeral, she see a job advertised. Julia and Anthony her brother find out there mother had left a hundred pounds, that Anthony will have, all Julia Pearlie, gets is some pieces of jewellery.
Now Julia has no money, or no home, the only thing she can do is accept a live in companion job, at Mistcoate House in a little village Fellwick in Norfolk to look after Dr Richmond’s seventeen year old daughter Miss Olivia Richmond.
The village have there own speculations about Miss Olivia, who goes for midnight walks alone, and rumours have it that she haunts the woods.
As Julia starts her companion job, she is given strict instructions curtains and shutters are to be closed in the middle of the day, front and back doors must be locked at all times. And Miss Olivia can’t go anywhere without the housekeeper or her father knowing. Strange things go on the house of Mistcoate. Julia is put into a shock, Miss Olivia, seems somehow familiar.
Olivia, who may seem strange but she knows things! The question is how?
Mrs Hayes the housekeeper bought Olivia a gift, a set of tarot card. Olivia likes to do reading with her tarot cards, but there’s a point where she can really scare people, with what she says, some call her mad.
When it’s Julia’s turn to be told what her tarot card says. Olivia hits the exact button, leaving Julia stunned at how Olivia knew about her past.
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is for fans out there of Jane Eyre, and The Night Circus. But I can tell you all that a lot of bloggers will love this spooky tale.
When I took my proof copy out of the envelope and a spider fell out it frightened the living daylights out of me! But I absolutely just loved, loved this debut novel, by Louise Davidson.
Halloween! I love this time of year, it’s dark outside, with the creepy books and films to enjoy and The Fortunes Of Olivia Richmond, is definitely 100% the book to read as we approach Halloween, with a gripping flair of gothic, and paranormal period drama.
It’s clear to me after reading this book, that this darkly gothic historical mystery novel should be made into a scary film.
The day after Julia’s mother’s funeral, she see a job advertised. Julia and Anthony her brother find out there mother had left a hundred pounds, that Anthony will have, all Julia Pearlie, gets is some pieces of jewellery.
Now Julia has no money, or no home, the only thing she can do is accept a live in companion job, at Mistcoate House in a little village Fellwick in Norfolk to look after Dr Richmond’s seventeen year old daughter Miss Olivia Richmond.
The village have there own speculations about Miss Olivia, who goes for midnight walks alone, and rumours have it that she haunts the woods.
As Julia starts her companion job, she is given strict instructions curtains and shutters are to be closed in the middle of the day, front and back doors must be locked at all times. And Miss Olivia can’t go anywhere without the housekeeper or her father knowing. Strange things go on the house of Mistcoate. Julia is put into a shock, Miss Olivia, seems somehow familiar.
Olivia, who may seem strange but she knows things! The question is how?
Mrs Hayes the housekeeper bought Olivia a gift, a set of tarot card. Olivia likes to do reading with her tarot cards, but there’s a point where she can really scare people, with what she says, some call her mad.
When it’s Julia’s turn to be told what her tarot card says. Olivia hits the exact button, leaving Julia stunned at how Olivia knew about her past.
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is for fans out there of Jane Eyre, and The Night Circus. But I can tell you all that a lot of bloggers will love this spooky tale.
November 11, 2024
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is a gothic historical fiction novel that follows a young woman named Julia Pearlie. Julia is desperate to find a new role after the horrible events during her previous role as a governess. With no references she has very few options but when she is offered the role of companion and etiquette teacher to a young woman named Olivia Richmond, Julia knows she has no choice but to take the role. When Julia arrives at Mistcoate Hall she hears rumours about the Mistcoate witch and Olivia’s strong belief that she can commune with the dead. As Julia gets to work training Olivia for the upcoming London season, she is soon sucked into the darkness and mysteries that surround Mistcoate hall. Will she be able to save herself and those she has grown to care for?
I absolutely adored this book. It was an eerie, unsettling gothic tale that completely captured my imagination. It was such a readable, addictive read. I frequently found myself sitting down to read just one chapter and getting so caught up in the story that I was still there five chapters later. I really enjoyed Davidson’s writing style – the sights and sounds of Norfolk in the 1800s really comes to life in Davidson’s prose. Davidson is also an absolute master at creating atmosphere – some of the more spooky scenes were absolutely terrifying and without a doubt sent a shiver up my spine.
I loved the slightly isolated setting of Mistcoate Hall and I found the tarot element really fascinating. Davidson has created some really compelling characters in this book. Julia and Olivia are both so interesting and I really liked Alice, Ed and Marian too. This gothic book is a dark and creepy page turner so if you’re looking for some historical fiction that you won’t be able to put down, The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is a book you will not want to miss.
I absolutely adored this book. It was an eerie, unsettling gothic tale that completely captured my imagination. It was such a readable, addictive read. I frequently found myself sitting down to read just one chapter and getting so caught up in the story that I was still there five chapters later. I really enjoyed Davidson’s writing style – the sights and sounds of Norfolk in the 1800s really comes to life in Davidson’s prose. Davidson is also an absolute master at creating atmosphere – some of the more spooky scenes were absolutely terrifying and without a doubt sent a shiver up my spine.
I loved the slightly isolated setting of Mistcoate Hall and I found the tarot element really fascinating. Davidson has created some really compelling characters in this book. Julia and Olivia are both so interesting and I really liked Alice, Ed and Marian too. This gothic book is a dark and creepy page turner so if you’re looking for some historical fiction that you won’t be able to put down, The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is a book you will not want to miss.
October 31, 2024
When Julia Pearlie takes the position as companion to Miss Olivia Richmond she is unprepared for what awaits her at Mistcoate House as not only is Olivia a pale, wraith-like young woman but the house itself, so shrouded in darkness and shadows, is equally as haunting. With no prospects Julia must make a success of her employment at Mistcoate but with a mercurial employer and a dangerous housekeeper who is hellbent on making Julia’s life a misery and you have all the ingredients needed for a creepy gothic mystery.
With lots of things that go bump in the night, this atmospheric novel takes the Victorian fascination for mediums and seances and turns it into a dark and shadowy Gothic tale of dangerous obsession and manipulative control. Taking advantage of the darkness which surrounds Mistcoate and with a thrilling pace this beautifully layered story really grips the imagination. I especially enjoyed the tarot card references and the way in which each chapter wraps itself around what the cards are foretelling. Julia Pearlie is an interesting lead character but it is Olivia Richmond whose heartbreaking story dominates and which really captures the imagination. There’s a definite twist in the tale and an ending which, I think, could easily lend itself to a continuation as I don’t feel we have heard enough, going forward, about either Julia Pearlie or Olivia Richmond.
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is a creepy and atmospheric story which makes it a perfect read for Halloween night👻
October 29, 2024
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is the perfect read for spooky season. Julia Pearlie takes a role as companion to Olivia Richmond at Mistcoate House in Norfolk. This is the fresh start Julia needs after a tragic end to her previous position. She has her work cut out though: Olivia appears to have supernatural powers, her father is sometimes erratic, and the housekeeper, Mrs Hayes, seems to loathe Julia's presence in the house.
This is such an atmospheric and truly compelling read. It's set towards the end of the Victorian era and the sense of time and place is depicted perfectly. Mistcoate itself has a faded grandeur and felt like a dark and lonely place for Julia. In the nearby village, she makes friends but often feels out of place and her charge's reputation as the Mistcoate witch doesn't help.
The Yorkshire Times describes this book as being a cross between Jane Eyre and The Woman in Black, with a hefty dose of Mrs Danvers thrown in. I can't do any better than that and what an endorsement! It feels true to the era, particularly the Victorian fervour for fortune telling and séances. Julia narrates her story and there's always a niggling doubt as to whether she's unreliable or not, but ultimately I loved her personality and she, Olivia and Mrs Hayes proved to be vivid characters who jumped off the page.
I loved this dark, historical fiction story. It's twisty and eerie, with a huge amount of gothic splendour, and I was engrossed from beginning to end in Miss Pearlie's account of her time with the Richmonds. A fantastic debut.
This is such an atmospheric and truly compelling read. It's set towards the end of the Victorian era and the sense of time and place is depicted perfectly. Mistcoate itself has a faded grandeur and felt like a dark and lonely place for Julia. In the nearby village, she makes friends but often feels out of place and her charge's reputation as the Mistcoate witch doesn't help.
The Yorkshire Times describes this book as being a cross between Jane Eyre and The Woman in Black, with a hefty dose of Mrs Danvers thrown in. I can't do any better than that and what an endorsement! It feels true to the era, particularly the Victorian fervour for fortune telling and séances. Julia narrates her story and there's always a niggling doubt as to whether she's unreliable or not, but ultimately I loved her personality and she, Olivia and Mrs Hayes proved to be vivid characters who jumped off the page.
I loved this dark, historical fiction story. It's twisty and eerie, with a huge amount of gothic splendour, and I was engrossed from beginning to end in Miss Pearlie's account of her time with the Richmonds. A fantastic debut.
November 4, 2023
Discover the locations in the novel here
A perfect tale for the dark, spooky season.
After her mum's funeral, Julia gets a job and moves to Mistcoate House to look after a lady in a big old house in Norfolk
Miss Olivia Richmond might only be 17 but she needs a companion - well at least her father says. The villagers have opinions about her and there are many rumours. When the setting is a dark, gothic house, you know you're in for a creepy read. She is given strange instructions like to close the shutters even in the daytime. I mean, spooky and chilling, right!?
This is one weird house/
Olivia is one weird girl
Mrs Hayes, the housekeeper gives Olivia some tarot cards and that's when things get very interesting.
I love the scene setting and clear images you get in your head when you read. This is pretty gothic and a chilling story that continues to surprise and shock.
Recommended!
November 15, 2024
I love when I read a book completely out of my comfort zone, it's a genre I wouldn't normally pick up and end up absolutely loving it.
The Fortunes Of Olivia Richmond is a gothic historical fiction novel which follows Julia Pearlie who takes a job at Mistcoate coaching a young lady, the titular Olivia Richmond, for a move to London. Upon Julia's arrival she discovers that the townspeople are quite afraid of Olivia, referring to her as The Witch of Mistcoate. She also has the ability to read tarot cards and has psychic abilities, holding séances and the like.
Julia Pearlie also has something that she has been hiding that happened in her previous employment that Olivia can see. Olivia is a wonderful character and I felt for her due to the behaviours of her father towards her and his "experiments" as he believed she was suffering from hysteria.
I know nothing about tarot cards and each chapter is titled after one so the glossary at the end was very helpful.
I really love the chilling and spooky aspect combined with the historical setting. It really made the whole book feel so atmospheric. This is one that will keep you gripped from the beginning!
The Fortunes Of Olivia Richmond is a gothic historical fiction novel which follows Julia Pearlie who takes a job at Mistcoate coaching a young lady, the titular Olivia Richmond, for a move to London. Upon Julia's arrival she discovers that the townspeople are quite afraid of Olivia, referring to her as The Witch of Mistcoate. She also has the ability to read tarot cards and has psychic abilities, holding séances and the like.
Julia Pearlie also has something that she has been hiding that happened in her previous employment that Olivia can see. Olivia is a wonderful character and I felt for her due to the behaviours of her father towards her and his "experiments" as he believed she was suffering from hysteria.
I know nothing about tarot cards and each chapter is titled after one so the glossary at the end was very helpful.
I really love the chilling and spooky aspect combined with the historical setting. It really made the whole book feel so atmospheric. This is one that will keep you gripped from the beginning!
October 26, 2024
I was absolutely engrossed in this book from the start to the very last page. Julia Pearlie, had been a governess for the Kemps, until a family tragedy happened, leaving Julia out of work and with no references, thus making it hard to get a job. She goes back to the family home, to where her brother and his expectant wife are living. Their mother had recently passed and Julia was hoping her mother would have left her some small legacy to enable her to restart her life. But it wasn’t to be her mother had left everything to her brother. Would he give her something?
Julia needs to find a job, but with no reference this is not an easy task, but a chance comes her way, and references are not absolutely necessary. A Dr George Richmond is looking for a companion for his teenage daughter Olivia. He wants her to be taught how to behave in society, to prepare her for her upcoming debutante season in London. The job is in Mistcoate House in Norfolk. When Julia arrives the new start doesn’t look quite as good as she had hoped it to be. Mistcoate house is a little eerie and the people who live in it seem a little sinister. The daughter Olivia is known by the locals as the Mistcoate Witch, why? What could she have done to have earned this title. Or was it just idle gossip. Dr Richmond declares his daughter’s behaviour is just that of a girlish folly, but Olivia does seem to know a great deal more about people’s private lives than she should, including secrets that Julia is hiding.
Set in the 1890, this a delightfully creepy, atmospheric read, a brilliant debut novel by Louise Davidson, there is a lot of mystery involved with secrets from the past, cleverly woven together, you have no idea what is coming next. Julia gradually works on unravelling the weird goings on at the house, and you slowly learn of her own secrets, the tragedy and heartbreak that have deeply affected her. The whole setting of the house and the woods around it are creepy, before you even get to the house. Who is it that hangs out in the woods? Does Olivia truly have a gift at reading tarot cards, or knowing things from the past, or is it all a sham. This story is perfect for this time of year, October, a little bit of horror, which plays perfectly with all the secrets, lies, and betrayals that add to the twists and turns of the story. Who can be trusted? One character for me was like Mrs Danvers from my favourite read Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier.
Where does Olivia go at night? Why do all the curtains and blinds have to be closed during the day? What is Dr Richmond doing with his daughter when she has sessions with him? He claims it’s for an important paper he is writing.
Why did Mrs Hayes the housekeeper buy Olivia some tarot cards in the first place? Because Olivia likes to do readings with the cards this is why some have deemed her mad.
I really felt for Julia, as she tries to do what’s right to try and help Olivia, who doesn’t have it easy. Can she fight to uncover the secrets, as well as save herself and Olivia?
I thoroughly enjoyed this read, there were times it was so creepy, the whole atmospheric setting of it was perfect. The plot line keeps you guessing until the end, there were several parts I hadn’t picked up on until they were revealed. A perfect read for Halloween where things may go bump in the night.
An absolute ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read, I will be watching to see what this author writes next.
Julia needs to find a job, but with no reference this is not an easy task, but a chance comes her way, and references are not absolutely necessary. A Dr George Richmond is looking for a companion for his teenage daughter Olivia. He wants her to be taught how to behave in society, to prepare her for her upcoming debutante season in London. The job is in Mistcoate House in Norfolk. When Julia arrives the new start doesn’t look quite as good as she had hoped it to be. Mistcoate house is a little eerie and the people who live in it seem a little sinister. The daughter Olivia is known by the locals as the Mistcoate Witch, why? What could she have done to have earned this title. Or was it just idle gossip. Dr Richmond declares his daughter’s behaviour is just that of a girlish folly, but Olivia does seem to know a great deal more about people’s private lives than she should, including secrets that Julia is hiding.
Set in the 1890, this a delightfully creepy, atmospheric read, a brilliant debut novel by Louise Davidson, there is a lot of mystery involved with secrets from the past, cleverly woven together, you have no idea what is coming next. Julia gradually works on unravelling the weird goings on at the house, and you slowly learn of her own secrets, the tragedy and heartbreak that have deeply affected her. The whole setting of the house and the woods around it are creepy, before you even get to the house. Who is it that hangs out in the woods? Does Olivia truly have a gift at reading tarot cards, or knowing things from the past, or is it all a sham. This story is perfect for this time of year, October, a little bit of horror, which plays perfectly with all the secrets, lies, and betrayals that add to the twists and turns of the story. Who can be trusted? One character for me was like Mrs Danvers from my favourite read Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier.
Where does Olivia go at night? Why do all the curtains and blinds have to be closed during the day? What is Dr Richmond doing with his daughter when she has sessions with him? He claims it’s for an important paper he is writing.
Why did Mrs Hayes the housekeeper buy Olivia some tarot cards in the first place? Because Olivia likes to do readings with the cards this is why some have deemed her mad.
I really felt for Julia, as she tries to do what’s right to try and help Olivia, who doesn’t have it easy. Can she fight to uncover the secrets, as well as save herself and Olivia?
I thoroughly enjoyed this read, there were times it was so creepy, the whole atmospheric setting of it was perfect. The plot line keeps you guessing until the end, there were several parts I hadn’t picked up on until they were revealed. A perfect read for Halloween where things may go bump in the night.
An absolute ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read, I will be watching to see what this author writes next.
October 30, 2023
The Fortunes of Olivia Richmond is a debut novel that I won't forget any time soon. I don't usually read historical books, but this Victorian Gothic story sounded really intriguing.
I am so glad I got to read it! This book is creepy and atmospheric, emotionally charged, and really thought-provoking. The character of young Miss Olivia had me captivated from the off. She made me desperately sad, but intrigued me and frightened me in equal measure. Her companion, Miss Julia, was multi-layered, and made me feel deeply saddened.
Everything about this book was perfection. The descriptions of the settings, the deeply emotional story, the diverse characters, everything, was perfect.
I am so glad I got to read it! This book is creepy and atmospheric, emotionally charged, and really thought-provoking. The character of young Miss Olivia had me captivated from the off. She made me desperately sad, but intrigued me and frightened me in equal measure. Her companion, Miss Julia, was multi-layered, and made me feel deeply saddened.
Everything about this book was perfection. The descriptions of the settings, the deeply emotional story, the diverse characters, everything, was perfect.
May 7, 2024
After reading a few “duds” and throwing them on the DNF pile (Did Not Finish), I was DESPERATE for a good, solid gothic historical fiction book to take me out of my booky-doldrums……. This is when I fished out THIS beauty from my TBR pile (To Be Read)!
The jewel in the gothic Victorian crown!! Absolute bliss that kept me engaged throughout and would’ve finished it in one day if I hadn’t had to work!
If you like gothic, Victorian, supernatural stories with murder and crime weaved, ever so cleverly, throughout then this book is what you need to get you out of a book-slump!!
Brilliant and I eagerly await the next book by this author as I believe this was her debut novel. 👏🏼
The jewel in the gothic Victorian crown!! Absolute bliss that kept me engaged throughout and would’ve finished it in one day if I hadn’t had to work!
If you like gothic, Victorian, supernatural stories with murder and crime weaved, ever so cleverly, throughout then this book is what you need to get you out of a book-slump!!
Brilliant and I eagerly await the next book by this author as I believe this was her debut novel. 👏🏼
October 26, 2023
The fortunes of Olivia Richmond by Louise Davidson.
After a terrible tragedy, governess Julia Pearlie finds herself with no job, home, or references. When she’s offered a position as companion to Miss Olivia Richmond, her luck appears to be turning. But Mistcoate House is full of secrets.
I did enjoy this book. I did like Julie. I wasn't sure about Mrs Hayes. I did like Olivia. I do hope there is more to come. 5*.
After a terrible tragedy, governess Julia Pearlie finds herself with no job, home, or references. When she’s offered a position as companion to Miss Olivia Richmond, her luck appears to be turning. But Mistcoate House is full of secrets.
I did enjoy this book. I did like Julie. I wasn't sure about Mrs Hayes. I did like Olivia. I do hope there is more to come. 5*.
October 29, 2023
Ooh well this is very atmospheric in time for the spooky season!
Very strong female leads, and I wasn't entirely sure who to trust. Loved the dynamic between Julia and Olivia, and the contrast in characters.
I liked the way Tarot was woven in, not just the plot but with chapter titles too. Lots going on to keep me interested, entertained and on the edge of my seat. A great ensemble of wider characters too.
Overall, a wonderful, vivid read with gothic aplenty.
Very strong female leads, and I wasn't entirely sure who to trust. Loved the dynamic between Julia and Olivia, and the contrast in characters.
I liked the way Tarot was woven in, not just the plot but with chapter titles too. Lots going on to keep me interested, entertained and on the edge of my seat. A great ensemble of wider characters too.
Overall, a wonderful, vivid read with gothic aplenty.
October 13, 2024
Not the type of book I would normally read, but after reading the fortunes of Olivia Richmond I think I’ll be searching out more books of this type!
The setting and characters were rich and detailed, and the spooky parts felt genuinely suspenseful and uncomfortable at times.
A blend of historical, Gothic, a bit of horror/supernatural. A good read even for people who aren’t fans of the genre.
The setting and characters were rich and detailed, and the spooky parts felt genuinely suspenseful and uncomfortable at times.
A blend of historical, Gothic, a bit of horror/supernatural. A good read even for people who aren’t fans of the genre.
October 28, 2023
COPY PROVIDED BY THE PUBLISHER IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. Shelving this as a DNF for now bc I don’t think it’s the right book for me. What I read was alright and I would like to pick this back up in the future.
October 20, 2024
Not my usual read - I'm not a lover of fantasy or magic/witchcraft. But actually I warmed up to the characters and the plot.
The book was gripping, but kept you guessing and an ending leaving you to imagine what comes next.
The book was gripping, but kept you guessing and an ending leaving you to imagine what comes next.
December 16, 2023
Stupid book kept me awake all night 'cause I couldn't put it down.
Loved it. It's a corker!
Loved it. It's a corker!
January 16, 2024
A new take on the young woman with dark secrets becomes a new governess for creepy child trope.
This was a gothic, very engrossing book that kept me reading.
This was a gothic, very engrossing book that kept me reading.
July 28, 2025
It is always a good sign when a feminine name makes up part of a book's title. As predicted based on the title alone, I enjoyed this gothic tale. Rooted in the beloved tropes of the genre, yet twisted with tarot philosophy, the story follows an out-of-luck woman who, escaping her past, accepts a position as a companion to a girl whom the village calls a witch. Set in an isolated manor, with a dominant and "mad" master (also a doctor), she begins to question the safety of her charge . . . and herself.
The story uses tarot cards as chapter titles, and even includes a tarot glossary in the back. The book itself is beautiful, with black sprayed edges and intricate chapter headers. I was hoping for it to delve a bit deeper into spiritualism and the supernatural, yet I still appreciated the story overall and would read another book from this author.
The story uses tarot cards as chapter titles, and even includes a tarot glossary in the back. The book itself is beautiful, with black sprayed edges and intricate chapter headers. I was hoping for it to delve a bit deeper into spiritualism and the supernatural, yet I still appreciated the story overall and would read another book from this author.
August 14, 2025
A decent gothic horror filled with investable characters and deliciously eerie descriptions.
Unfortunately, the last few chapters were a chore to get through, and the Shambler storyline seemed to have been a lazy detour rather than a credible part of the bigger picture. Had the horror been contained strictly to the devastating events at the hands of the ghouls summoned by ominous Olivia's tarot card reading, then this book would've been far more encapsulating. However, Davidson chose to go down the lukewarm path of 'psycho ex' - meh.
Unfortunately, the last few chapters were a chore to get through, and the Shambler storyline seemed to have been a lazy detour rather than a credible part of the bigger picture. Had the horror been contained strictly to the devastating events at the hands of the ghouls summoned by ominous Olivia's tarot card reading, then this book would've been far more encapsulating. However, Davidson chose to go down the lukewarm path of 'psycho ex' - meh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2023
Full review now up on the blog: https://www.thewritinggreyhound.co.uk...
September 19, 2025
this was gorgeous. i loved the inner strength of julia and the way she was hell bent to do what she set out to do.
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