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Thornby Manor
Not yet published
Expected 18 Aug 26Penniless and newly orphaned Briar Monroe finds shelter at Thornby Manor, a brooding estate above a mist-shrouded lake. But whispers of a dead wife, an estranged son and locked-away secrets haunt its corridors … Atmospheric, intoxicating and laced with peril – a spellbinding historical mystery of love, betrayal, obsession and a house that will not release its past…
Warwickshire, 1891. Recently orphaned and left destitute, Briar Monroe accepts the protection of Lord Danville and the shadowed sanctuary of Thornby Manor. The great house looms above a mist-shrouded lake, its corridors heavy with secrets – not least the mysterious death of Lady Elizabeth Danville, and the unspoken tensions between her formidable widower and his magnetic son, Gabriel.
As Briar navigates the undercurrents of a household ruled by watchful servants and locked doors, she is drawn ever deeper into a web of suspicion, desire and fear. Whispers in the night, figures at windows, and a constant sense of being watched leave her questioning not only the truth about Thornby, but her own safety within its walls.
Atmospheric, intoxicating and laced with peril, Thornby Manor is a gothic tale of betrayal, obsession and a house that never forgets.
A simmering, haunting debut for readers who loved Jane Eyre, Rebecca, The Woman in White and The Silent Companions
Warwickshire, 1891. Recently orphaned and left destitute, Briar Monroe accepts the protection of Lord Danville and the shadowed sanctuary of Thornby Manor. The great house looms above a mist-shrouded lake, its corridors heavy with secrets – not least the mysterious death of Lady Elizabeth Danville, and the unspoken tensions between her formidable widower and his magnetic son, Gabriel.
As Briar navigates the undercurrents of a household ruled by watchful servants and locked doors, she is drawn ever deeper into a web of suspicion, desire and fear. Whispers in the night, figures at windows, and a constant sense of being watched leave her questioning not only the truth about Thornby, but her own safety within its walls.
Atmospheric, intoxicating and laced with peril, Thornby Manor is a gothic tale of betrayal, obsession and a house that never forgets.
A simmering, haunting debut for readers who loved Jane Eyre, Rebecca, The Woman in White and The Silent Companions
300 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication August 18, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 25, 2026
Full review to come - it's Victorian, it's gothic, it's delicious
Did Not Finish
May 22, 2026Dnf-ed yesterday because it contains a pet peeve of mine. I get that it tries to be sensationalist but right now i’d rather read the og victorian sensationalism than some modern pastiche of it
May 10, 2026
Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes has created a creepy, atmospheric setting in her debut gothic thriller, Thornby Manor. We are introduced to Briar Monroe, who finds herself travelling to Thornby Manor, following the death of her parents. Thornby Manor isn’t where Briar expected herself to be. By travelling there, instead of her intended journey with her aunt, Briar finds herself on an unexpected path, and there are many secrets on this journey, shrouded in mist, which Briar is determined to uncover.
I absolutely loved the setting, which Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes has done an excellent job of bringing to life. I could see the house rising out of the mist and feel the eeriness within its walls as Briar tries to navigate this next phase of her life. The owner of the house, Lord Danville, is definitely an intriguing character. I got the sense that he is a person you would not like to get on the wrong side of. Briar senses something isn’t quite right here, and the more she tried to investigate, the more I wanted to shout to her that she seemed to be getting closer and closer to danger.
The connection Briar forms with Gabriel, Lord Danville’s son, is one of the highlights of this book. I loved how they worked together to discover the secrets of Thornby Manor, particularly in what Lord Danville might be hiding, particularly with what happened to Gabriel’s mother before she recently died. This is what helps to create that creeping sense of dread, which really increases the tension. The more Briar and Gabriel worked together, the more it was possible to see the connection and the chemistry forming between them. It did leave me wondering how Stephanie might continue to develop this further and where this path would lead them. I have a feeling Stephanie’s characters may become firm favourites among readers of this genre.
The atmosphere drips with tension right the way through Thornby Manor. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters, and the depth Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes has given them really shone on the page. I highly recommend this book.
I absolutely loved the setting, which Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes has done an excellent job of bringing to life. I could see the house rising out of the mist and feel the eeriness within its walls as Briar tries to navigate this next phase of her life. The owner of the house, Lord Danville, is definitely an intriguing character. I got the sense that he is a person you would not like to get on the wrong side of. Briar senses something isn’t quite right here, and the more she tried to investigate, the more I wanted to shout to her that she seemed to be getting closer and closer to danger.
The connection Briar forms with Gabriel, Lord Danville’s son, is one of the highlights of this book. I loved how they worked together to discover the secrets of Thornby Manor, particularly in what Lord Danville might be hiding, particularly with what happened to Gabriel’s mother before she recently died. This is what helps to create that creeping sense of dread, which really increases the tension. The more Briar and Gabriel worked together, the more it was possible to see the connection and the chemistry forming between them. It did leave me wondering how Stephanie might continue to develop this further and where this path would lead them. I have a feeling Stephanie’s characters may become firm favourites among readers of this genre.
The atmosphere drips with tension right the way through Thornby Manor. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters, and the depth Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes has given them really shone on the page. I highly recommend this book.
April 24, 2026
1891.
Briar Monroe leaves London after the death of her parents. She is due to join her Aunt Josephine so they could travel together, however, as her aunt falls unwell, she sends Lord Danville in her place.
Lord Danville is a powerful man in Warwickshire and he assures Briar that his wife, Lady Danville, is a good friend of her aunt’s. Placated by this, Briar accepts his invitation and finds herself in the draughty, surrounded by the mist, manor.
As soon as she arrives, a sense of foreboding begins. Nothing is as it seems: Lady Danville is dead, and the governess parades wearing fancy clothes in a home where none children are present.
Then, Gabriel, Lord Danville’s magnetic son, arrives…
I love a gothic novel and this one didn’t disappoint.
Briar was such a headstrong character, I was in awe of her. She was unafraid to help those who needed it, and by doing so, she has made an enemy of a powerful man.
Throughout the book, the threat of an asylum was palpable. A woman answered to her husband, and if he deemed her ‘hysterical’ or ‘too vocal’, then he could have had her committed to an asylum.
The proximity of the asylum to Thornby Manor only added to the threat.
I’m such a huge fan of Rebecca and Wuthering Heights, and I could see so many parallels between this book and those two classics. For example, Marie Clara, the governess, has reminded me so much of Mrs Danvers, the formidable housekeeper of Manderley.
This book is eerie, tense and atmospheric. I loved it.
Briar Monroe leaves London after the death of her parents. She is due to join her Aunt Josephine so they could travel together, however, as her aunt falls unwell, she sends Lord Danville in her place.
Lord Danville is a powerful man in Warwickshire and he assures Briar that his wife, Lady Danville, is a good friend of her aunt’s. Placated by this, Briar accepts his invitation and finds herself in the draughty, surrounded by the mist, manor.
As soon as she arrives, a sense of foreboding begins. Nothing is as it seems: Lady Danville is dead, and the governess parades wearing fancy clothes in a home where none children are present.
Then, Gabriel, Lord Danville’s magnetic son, arrives…
I love a gothic novel and this one didn’t disappoint.
Briar was such a headstrong character, I was in awe of her. She was unafraid to help those who needed it, and by doing so, she has made an enemy of a powerful man.
Throughout the book, the threat of an asylum was palpable. A woman answered to her husband, and if he deemed her ‘hysterical’ or ‘too vocal’, then he could have had her committed to an asylum.
The proximity of the asylum to Thornby Manor only added to the threat.
I’m such a huge fan of Rebecca and Wuthering Heights, and I could see so many parallels between this book and those two classics. For example, Marie Clara, the governess, has reminded me so much of Mrs Danvers, the formidable housekeeper of Manderley.
This book is eerie, tense and atmospheric. I loved it.
January 23, 2026
A twisty gothic novel set in a Victorian manor house, with both mist and unsettling rumours swirling around.
Briar Monroe leaves London to begin a trip with her Aunt, but a change of plans leaves her at Thornby Manor. Both the staff and the man of the house, Lord Danville, are clearly hiding something from their unexpected guest.
Briar was a great character, a strong and outspoken woman at a time where this behaviour was not acceptable - and could even land her in an asylum. I loved that her strength was not just in making herself heard, but in her compassion for others.
I flew through this novel and it was an easy four star read. I would have liked more of the Briar/Gabriel story and there were a few loose ends around the Governess but maybe that’s for a sequel/prequel? For a debut novel this is a banger!
There are obvious similarities to Jane Eyre, Rebecca, and The Silent Companions and I would recommend to fans of that vibe. Perfect for a dark and rainy night.
Thank you to Orenda Books for an ARC. I look forward to seeing what’s next from Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes!
Briar Monroe leaves London to begin a trip with her Aunt, but a change of plans leaves her at Thornby Manor. Both the staff and the man of the house, Lord Danville, are clearly hiding something from their unexpected guest.
Briar was a great character, a strong and outspoken woman at a time where this behaviour was not acceptable - and could even land her in an asylum. I loved that her strength was not just in making herself heard, but in her compassion for others.
I flew through this novel and it was an easy four star read. I would have liked more of the Briar/Gabriel story and there were a few loose ends around the Governess but maybe that’s for a sequel/prequel? For a debut novel this is a banger!
There are obvious similarities to Jane Eyre, Rebecca, and The Silent Companions and I would recommend to fans of that vibe. Perfect for a dark and rainy night.
Thank you to Orenda Books for an ARC. I look forward to seeing what’s next from Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes!
May 11, 2026
This is an unsettling Victorian mystery about the inhabitants of Thornby Manor.
After the tragic (and mysterious) loss of her parents, Briar Monroe accepts sanctuary with the Danville family at Thornby Manor whilst awaiting the arrival of her aunt. The house and family are shrouded in mystery and tension. The lady of the house has mysteriously and unexpectedly died and the house is full of locked doors, missing servants, weird noises and a strange housekeeper wearing her dead mistresses clothes. There’s also a mist shrouded lake bringing pure gothic vibes and a near by asylum locking up innocent people. If that’s not enough atmospheric tension for you there’s also a handsome brooding son of Thorny Manor who Briar has hot chemistry with as they investigate what has happened to his mother.
I absolutely loved Briar. A courageous and determined MC who thrashes at the chains of the patriarchy. Loved the electric and charged relationship with Gabriel and her passion for justice and protecting her family. The mystery elements in this story were executed perfectly, overlapping, suspenseful and kept me gripped to the last page. Gorgeously written with evocative and immersive descriptions and dripping with atmospheric foreboding; this is a certified Gothic banger.
Rebecca meets Jayne Eyre with the woman in white by a lake.
Thanks to Odenda Books and random things tours for the copy to review. It was a delight.
After the tragic (and mysterious) loss of her parents, Briar Monroe accepts sanctuary with the Danville family at Thornby Manor whilst awaiting the arrival of her aunt. The house and family are shrouded in mystery and tension. The lady of the house has mysteriously and unexpectedly died and the house is full of locked doors, missing servants, weird noises and a strange housekeeper wearing her dead mistresses clothes. There’s also a mist shrouded lake bringing pure gothic vibes and a near by asylum locking up innocent people. If that’s not enough atmospheric tension for you there’s also a handsome brooding son of Thorny Manor who Briar has hot chemistry with as they investigate what has happened to his mother.
I absolutely loved Briar. A courageous and determined MC who thrashes at the chains of the patriarchy. Loved the electric and charged relationship with Gabriel and her passion for justice and protecting her family. The mystery elements in this story were executed perfectly, overlapping, suspenseful and kept me gripped to the last page. Gorgeously written with evocative and immersive descriptions and dripping with atmospheric foreboding; this is a certified Gothic banger.
Rebecca meets Jayne Eyre with the woman in white by a lake.
Thanks to Odenda Books and random things tours for the copy to review. It was a delight.
May 13, 2026
Oooh now this is a gothic prose akin to the classics but easier to read.
An eerie unsettling house with a mystery at its heart.
A fantastic novel of the Victorian era’s outlook on hysteria and women with strong minds.
Also a story consumed with grief and loss and what that does to a mind.
Nothing unsettles me more than an asylum and although the asylum isn’t a key setting, the threat of it looming in the background gave me the heebie jeebies. 😂
Thornby Manor was giving me all the “The Others” movie with Nicole Kidman vibes. As in, you don’t know whether you’re coming or going, are there ghosts? Who’s sneaking around the house watching our MC’s? Was there really a lady floating across the lake?
Who knows, guess you’ll have to read it to find out 😏
I really enjoyed the plot unravelling and the pieces of the puzzle coming into place.
An eerie unsettling house with a mystery at its heart.
A fantastic novel of the Victorian era’s outlook on hysteria and women with strong minds.
Also a story consumed with grief and loss and what that does to a mind.
Nothing unsettles me more than an asylum and although the asylum isn’t a key setting, the threat of it looming in the background gave me the heebie jeebies. 😂
Thornby Manor was giving me all the “The Others” movie with Nicole Kidman vibes. As in, you don’t know whether you’re coming or going, are there ghosts? Who’s sneaking around the house watching our MC’s? Was there really a lady floating across the lake?
Who knows, guess you’ll have to read it to find out 😏
I really enjoyed the plot unravelling and the pieces of the puzzle coming into place.
May 13, 2026
Gothic period piece - always a fav but this was a different spin on a haunting tale of what it’s like when women are not respected to hold their own autonomy and the lies that can become all consuming when pride is leveraged against compassion.
May 15, 2026
Absolute. Masterpiece.
May 17, 2026
TW: miscarriage, postpartum depression, postpartum psychosis, suicidal ideation, mental illness
A Victorian Gothic novel with mystery, suspense, decaying estate, twists, hidden secrets, and emotion. Set in a dark, isolated manor filled with secrets, the story builds a steady sense of unease.
The MFC is an advocate for ppl with mental or emotional disabilities, and responds with patience and compassion. Rather than using mental illness as a source of horror, the novel treats it with care and humanity. It quietly criticizes how cruel and unfair treatment often was in that era, especially toward those who had no voice or protection. This gives the story emotional weight beyond its mystery plot.
Overall, Thornby Manor is less about confusion or complexity and more about mood, empathy, and social awareness. It delivers the Gothic feel of mystery and darkness while also leaving you with a strong sense of sympathy for its characters, especially those who were misunderstood by society.
A Victorian Gothic novel with mystery, suspense, decaying estate, twists, hidden secrets, and emotion. Set in a dark, isolated manor filled with secrets, the story builds a steady sense of unease.
The MFC is an advocate for ppl with mental or emotional disabilities, and responds with patience and compassion. Rather than using mental illness as a source of horror, the novel treats it with care and humanity. It quietly criticizes how cruel and unfair treatment often was in that era, especially toward those who had no voice or protection. This gives the story emotional weight beyond its mystery plot.
Overall, Thornby Manor is less about confusion or complexity and more about mood, empathy, and social awareness. It delivers the Gothic feel of mystery and darkness while also leaving you with a strong sense of sympathy for its characters, especially those who were misunderstood by society.
May 1, 2026
A really solid gothic read exploring topics such as grief, mental health, and what it meant to be a woman in Victorian times. The plot moves quickly, which is definitely a plus, but what made me enjoy the story most was that constant sense that something isn’t quite right, like the past is quietly seeping into everything and messing with the characters’ present.
I also liked how grounded the story feels in Warwickshire’s history, to the point where you could actually trace some of the locations today. The book was inspired by classics such as Jane Eyre and Rebecca, and it definitely captures that same moody vibe.
All in all, if you’re into character-driven gothic with a strong sense of place, it’s definitely worth giving a try.
I also liked how grounded the story feels in Warwickshire’s history, to the point where you could actually trace some of the locations today. The book was inspired by classics such as Jane Eyre and Rebecca, and it definitely captures that same moody vibe.
All in all, if you’re into character-driven gothic with a strong sense of place, it’s definitely worth giving a try.
May 7, 2026
A new gothic novel. I enjoyed it but the ending fell flat, which left me feeling disappointed. There was no big surprise or twist to be discovered in the final chapters. And several promising characters were never developed. A modern take on attempting the classic Brontë style. I just like the Brontë sisters’ work more! Maybe I set my expectations too high on this one.
May 13, 2026
Thornby Manor is an incredibly atmospheric gothic historical mystery set in Warwickshire in 1891. We follow Briar Monroe, a recently orphaned young woman whose comfortable upbringing falls apart after her both parents’ deaths leave her secretly destitute. Hiding the truth from her sister, Briar feels like she has no choice but to fall on the mercy of an old aunt who has been out of the country for many years. Whilst waiting for her aunts arrival back in England, Briar accepts an invitation to stay at the imposing Thornby Manor, the estate of the enigmatic Lord Danville and his wife. Shrouded in a thick mist that never seems to abate, Briar arrives at the manor only to discover Lady Danville has passed away and there are rumours abound about the cause of her death. When the Danville’s son Gabriel returns to the manor, Brair feels drawn to him and he confides in her that he believes there to be something unnatural about his mothers death and is convinced his father, who his relationships is tenuous with at best, is hiding something. What initially appears to be a refuge for Briar quickly transforms into something far more sinister with reports of ghostly apparitions, a locked second floor of the manor hiding who knows what secrets and peculiar governess who seems to be above her station in ruling the household.
So to me, the manor itself is this novels main character, even though Briar is the one telling the story. Perched above a mist-covered lake, riddled with locked rooms, shadowy corridors, whispers in the night, and lingering grief, Thornby Manor radiates unease from the moment Briar arrives. Oppressive, haunted by shadows and memories, everyone Briar speaks to seems to believe that the manor is a place to be afraid of and somewhere to be avoided at all costs. That being said, Briar is not your average passive gothic heroine. She is strong willed and not afraid to hold her own against Danville's male guests. She absolutely speaks her mind, and when things start to become concerning, she does not stand idly by and let them happen to her, instead making a stand and joining Gabriel in his search for evidence. Her growing connection with Gabriel adds a little bit of romantic tension, but their relationship never overwhelms the mystery, and instead actually adds to the tension. Gabriel is magnetic and emotionally charged, yet potentially dangerous, which keeps you questioning who can actually be trusted. I definitely got some serious Rebecca vibes from this book, with the metaphorical ghost of Lady Danville hanging over the whole novel like a black cloud. Just like Rebecca, and similar themed novels such as The Woman In White or Jane Eyre, it explores isolation, repression, obsession, and the dangerous imbalance of power within aristocratic households. There is also a cleverly woven commentary on Victorian attitudes toward women’s autonomy and mental illness, particularly the era’s tendency to institutionalise anyone viewed as socially inconvenient, different or emotionally unstable. The authors writing is absolutely stunning, we get this gorgeous, evocative prose that doesn’t become overly complicated or heavy. The imagery of these mist shrouded grounds, candlelit hallways, distant footsteps, and hidden passageways creates a suffocating atmosphere that throws you into the shoes of Briar and makes you feel what she is feeling. This is an absolutely phenomenal debut that captures everything I love about haunted house mysteries but with added emotion and depth. This was absolutely unputdownable and had me hanging on every word from beginning to end!
So to me, the manor itself is this novels main character, even though Briar is the one telling the story. Perched above a mist-covered lake, riddled with locked rooms, shadowy corridors, whispers in the night, and lingering grief, Thornby Manor radiates unease from the moment Briar arrives. Oppressive, haunted by shadows and memories, everyone Briar speaks to seems to believe that the manor is a place to be afraid of and somewhere to be avoided at all costs. That being said, Briar is not your average passive gothic heroine. She is strong willed and not afraid to hold her own against Danville's male guests. She absolutely speaks her mind, and when things start to become concerning, she does not stand idly by and let them happen to her, instead making a stand and joining Gabriel in his search for evidence. Her growing connection with Gabriel adds a little bit of romantic tension, but their relationship never overwhelms the mystery, and instead actually adds to the tension. Gabriel is magnetic and emotionally charged, yet potentially dangerous, which keeps you questioning who can actually be trusted. I definitely got some serious Rebecca vibes from this book, with the metaphorical ghost of Lady Danville hanging over the whole novel like a black cloud. Just like Rebecca, and similar themed novels such as The Woman In White or Jane Eyre, it explores isolation, repression, obsession, and the dangerous imbalance of power within aristocratic households. There is also a cleverly woven commentary on Victorian attitudes toward women’s autonomy and mental illness, particularly the era’s tendency to institutionalise anyone viewed as socially inconvenient, different or emotionally unstable. The authors writing is absolutely stunning, we get this gorgeous, evocative prose that doesn’t become overly complicated or heavy. The imagery of these mist shrouded grounds, candlelit hallways, distant footsteps, and hidden passageways creates a suffocating atmosphere that throws you into the shoes of Briar and makes you feel what she is feeling. This is an absolutely phenomenal debut that captures everything I love about haunted house mysteries but with added emotion and depth. This was absolutely unputdownable and had me hanging on every word from beginning to end!
May 13, 2026
When Briar is forced to leave her family home after the death of her parents she is understandably unhappy at leaving her sister who she is trying her hardest to protect. But her new life takes an early unexpected turn almost immediately when she has to move temporarily to Thornby Manor. Her new home was remote, regarded by locals with suspicion and appeared mainly unoccupied. Unfortunately one of the few people who lived there was Marie Clara. There was nothing about this woman likeable and my feelings increased the more I read.
I do love a character who refuses to back down to bullies and Briar was definitely one of those. With the time that this book is set, the 1890s, orphaned, lonely and in poverty it would be easy to agree to anything that was asked. But Briar was made of stronger stuff and had no intention of toeing the line. Even if her own safety was compromised. She placed herself in a dangerous position in the local area trying to protect a vulnerable person but gained respect and loyalty for that action from others. Her relationship with her father gave her knowledge that caused her question to certain facts and this made Marie Clara more of a threat. A threat who was terrified of what could be uncovered.
She isn’t the only threat though, there is also Thornby Manor itself. A house that is isolated,its remaining servants living in dread, hidden floors, locked rooms full of secrets and a very eerie mist. but she was determined to do her own thing, to see what had happened to Lady Danville despite the danger she faced from the house and its residents. Frances, one of the characters I really liked tried her hardest to highlight the dangers to Briar but she was determined to do her own thing, to see what had happened to Lady Danville despite the danger she faced from the house and its residents.
A novel full of characters that I couldn’t decide whether I trusted them or not. There were things I didn’t pick up on whilst reading and I will probably read again at some point to see if I view them differently.
This was a very strong debut novel by an author I will definitely be following.
I do love a character who refuses to back down to bullies and Briar was definitely one of those. With the time that this book is set, the 1890s, orphaned, lonely and in poverty it would be easy to agree to anything that was asked. But Briar was made of stronger stuff and had no intention of toeing the line. Even if her own safety was compromised. She placed herself in a dangerous position in the local area trying to protect a vulnerable person but gained respect and loyalty for that action from others. Her relationship with her father gave her knowledge that caused her question to certain facts and this made Marie Clara more of a threat. A threat who was terrified of what could be uncovered.
She isn’t the only threat though, there is also Thornby Manor itself. A house that is isolated,its remaining servants living in dread, hidden floors, locked rooms full of secrets and a very eerie mist. but she was determined to do her own thing, to see what had happened to Lady Danville despite the danger she faced from the house and its residents. Frances, one of the characters I really liked tried her hardest to highlight the dangers to Briar but she was determined to do her own thing, to see what had happened to Lady Danville despite the danger she faced from the house and its residents.
A novel full of characters that I couldn’t decide whether I trusted them or not. There were things I didn’t pick up on whilst reading and I will probably read again at some point to see if I view them differently.
This was a very strong debut novel by an author I will definitely be following.
May 6, 2026
‘Thornby Manor’ is a captivating gothic novel which was so engrossing that it had me up till the wee hours to finish it. The story of Briar Monroe will grab you by its intoxicating prose, and you will stay for the conflict and the mystery behind the cold corridors of Thornby Manor. This is the author’s debut, and you wouldn’t know it. The standard of the writing is high, and the characters and the narrative are superb!
Briar Monroe has recently lost her parents and is leaving London to travel with her Aunt. They are due to meet her Aunt at her old friend’s home, Thornby Manor. But when Briar arrives, she finds out her Aunt is unwell and that the friend, Lady Danville, has also passed away. Left alone with Lord Danville and the governess Marie Clara, Briar begins to feel burdened with a sense of foreboding. Thornby Manor has a plethora of secrets which are beginning to unravel…
This book has all the hallmarks of gothic fiction and, whilst playing homage to them, manages to create an identity of its own. Briar was a protagonist which was easy to root for. Spirited, willing to challenge the patriarchal society she found herself in, whilst fighting against the injustices she sees in the world. She is loyal to those she cares for and unable to resist the mystery of her temporary home. When she meets the younger Danville, she feels the instant chemistry with the son of the house. A son that has clearly outgrown the need for a governess. Marie Clara has influence above her station, another thing that piques Briar’s nose for secrets.
I ended up flipping between the paperback and the audiobook - FYI, it was included as part of my Audible subscription - and the narrator did a fabulous job! This is a book that beguiles and keeps your attention, and trust me, it is worth reading.
Let me know if you pick this one up.
May 8, 2026
“Madness has two faces: those who suffer it and those who profit from it.”
1891, having tragically lost both her parents in a short period of time, Briar is left penniless. Travelling to meet her Aunt, she is met instead with Lord Danville of Thornby Manor. He tells her that her Aunt is ill and has requested that his wife look after her in the meantime. When they get to Thornby Manor, Briar is stunned to find his wife is dead. This is only the first of several secrets which Briar tries to unravel as she strives to keep secrets of her own..
It is hard to believe this is a debut novel. Such assured writing, a brilliant plot and lashings of gorgeous gothic moodiness. The author even had me swooning at Gabriel - first time I’ve used that word on here! The story builds slowly with so much to pique the reader’s interest. I was reminded of the opening chapters of A Secret Garden and Jane Eyre with its austere governess, reclusive owner and an old house shrouded in mists and mystery. The author takes her time to ramp up the tension, pile up the secrets and turn up the sense of danger.
Recommended for fans of Jane Eyre and Rebecca, the writing has much in common with Wilkie Collins - a favourite of mine - with its interest in Victorian women, mental health and public asylums. Briar is a fabulous heroine, courageous, spirited, and a champion of the vulnerable. Assisting her Father in his work in the field of psychology has brought unique insight into the brutal treatment of women’s mental health and incarceration in barbaric institutions. These themes are firmly embedded in the story and the plot reaches deep into the nature of madness and its treatment. A thoroughly engrossing read!
May 7, 2026
First of all, I can’t believe this is a debut. The writing is absolutely beautiful! It’s metaphorical, atmospheric, immersive and so well done.
The story follows Briar, who, after the death of her parents, is forced to leave her home and rely on the support of her estranged aunt. But on the journey there, she learns her aunt is ill and instead is sent to stay at a friend’s manor. And, as the gothic vibes suggest, this manor is filled with dark secrets…
Anyone who enjoys gothic Victorian fiction will love this. There’s also a really compelling historical exploration of women’s lives during the Victorian era woven throughout the story. The characters felt layered and believable, and the setting itself was haunting, creepy, yet relatable all at once?!
The only reason this wasn’t a full 5 stars for me is that a few elements didn’t feel completely wrapped up by the end — though I suspect that may have been intentional. Overall, a fantastic read, and I’ll absolutely be reading whatever Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes writes next.
The story follows Briar, who, after the death of her parents, is forced to leave her home and rely on the support of her estranged aunt. But on the journey there, she learns her aunt is ill and instead is sent to stay at a friend’s manor. And, as the gothic vibes suggest, this manor is filled with dark secrets…
Anyone who enjoys gothic Victorian fiction will love this. There’s also a really compelling historical exploration of women’s lives during the Victorian era woven throughout the story. The characters felt layered and believable, and the setting itself was haunting, creepy, yet relatable all at once?!
The only reason this wasn’t a full 5 stars for me is that a few elements didn’t feel completely wrapped up by the end — though I suspect that may have been intentional. Overall, a fantastic read, and I’ll absolutely be reading whatever Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes writes next.
May 10, 2026
I don’t think the author had an editor. Also, there was barely a single chapter where a conversation was completed to the main character’s satisfaction — conversations that would have most definitely ended this book sooner. Lastly, the twist wasn’t really a twist at all. It was mostly surmised from barely a quarter of the way in. And even if the fine details weren’t known, enough was understood to want the author to hurry up and get to them.
April 23, 2026
If you love a book that exudes suspense and mystery, delivering a heady and potent mixture of atmosphere and tension, wrapped up in that deliciously gothic historical styling that pays homage to the classical literature many of us know and love, well you could do a lot worse than grab yourself a copy of this book. Thornby Manor is a truly captivating and irresistible novel that grabbed me from the start and held me, rapt, until the very final pages. So poetic and vivid is the imagery that the story evokes, that I really cannot believe this is Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes debut novel. Where has she been hiding all this time?
This is the story of Briar Monroe, a young woman in Victorian society who, having recently lost her parents, leaves London, and her sister, behind to embark upon travels with her Aunt. It is clear from the very beginning that Briar is holding secrets close to her chest, and the nature or, at the very least, the full extent of those secrets we have to wait a while to uncover. But it is the start of an unexpected journey for Briar when her Aunt is unable to travel and leaves her in the care of an old friend, Lady Elizabeth Danville. Now, sadly, Lady Danville herself is recently deceased, and so Briar finds herself in the company of her husband, Lord Danville, in the shadowy and misted grounds of the impressive and foreboding eponymous Thornby Manor.
And here the story really begins. The manor, and its inhabitants are as shrowded in mystery and the house itself is in mist. Everything about the place screams danger, an almost visceral sense of unease beginning to grow from the moment Briar, and by extension, us as readers, takes those first tentative steps into the manor. Ominous is the best way to describe it, and the way in which the author builds upon that initial frisson of fear or tension to build the sense of suspense and mystery within the novel is pitch perfect. There is nothing overt that keep the senses alert, no particular jump scare moments that would be out of place in such a story, just those small trinkets and moments of uncertainty, a noise here, a scent there, and a whole host of locked doors and partially hidden passages that create that drama. That feeling of 'otherliness' that keeps you wondering whether the root cause could be something spectral, or something altogether more real.
The characters in this book are so beautifully imagined. From Briar, a woman who is of a determined mind and perhaps a little more outspoken that polite society might expect, to Lord Danville, an imposing and perhaps slightly elusive character whose personality is hard to decipher - at least in the beginning. There is long term resident, Governess Marie Clara, who holds far more sway over the household that would normally be expected of someone whose charge has long since grown past the age of needing her guidance. And of course, the younger Danville, Gabriel, a man with whom Briar has no small amount of chemistry. The charge between them is enough to ignite any candle or gas lamp that may be positioned around the manor halls, but the distraction for them both lies in uncovering the truth about the final days of Lady Danville, an unpalatable truth that lies at the heart of all that happens both around the manor house and the wider Warwick society.
Dripping in authenticity, the book touches upon aspects of Victorian society that are less than agreeable, and the propensity for the world to want to lock away anything, or anyone, considered to be mentally unstable, or even just what we would now consider neuro-divergent. The intolerance, the mob mentality of the baying crowds, helps to build up additional layers of conflict in story that already carries a significant, if intoxicating, edge, the injustices adding to the many feelings that this story elicits. Haunting is perhaps the perfect description for the book, on so many levels, and it is most heartily recommended.
This is the story of Briar Monroe, a young woman in Victorian society who, having recently lost her parents, leaves London, and her sister, behind to embark upon travels with her Aunt. It is clear from the very beginning that Briar is holding secrets close to her chest, and the nature or, at the very least, the full extent of those secrets we have to wait a while to uncover. But it is the start of an unexpected journey for Briar when her Aunt is unable to travel and leaves her in the care of an old friend, Lady Elizabeth Danville. Now, sadly, Lady Danville herself is recently deceased, and so Briar finds herself in the company of her husband, Lord Danville, in the shadowy and misted grounds of the impressive and foreboding eponymous Thornby Manor.
And here the story really begins. The manor, and its inhabitants are as shrowded in mystery and the house itself is in mist. Everything about the place screams danger, an almost visceral sense of unease beginning to grow from the moment Briar, and by extension, us as readers, takes those first tentative steps into the manor. Ominous is the best way to describe it, and the way in which the author builds upon that initial frisson of fear or tension to build the sense of suspense and mystery within the novel is pitch perfect. There is nothing overt that keep the senses alert, no particular jump scare moments that would be out of place in such a story, just those small trinkets and moments of uncertainty, a noise here, a scent there, and a whole host of locked doors and partially hidden passages that create that drama. That feeling of 'otherliness' that keeps you wondering whether the root cause could be something spectral, or something altogether more real.
The characters in this book are so beautifully imagined. From Briar, a woman who is of a determined mind and perhaps a little more outspoken that polite society might expect, to Lord Danville, an imposing and perhaps slightly elusive character whose personality is hard to decipher - at least in the beginning. There is long term resident, Governess Marie Clara, who holds far more sway over the household that would normally be expected of someone whose charge has long since grown past the age of needing her guidance. And of course, the younger Danville, Gabriel, a man with whom Briar has no small amount of chemistry. The charge between them is enough to ignite any candle or gas lamp that may be positioned around the manor halls, but the distraction for them both lies in uncovering the truth about the final days of Lady Danville, an unpalatable truth that lies at the heart of all that happens both around the manor house and the wider Warwick society.
Dripping in authenticity, the book touches upon aspects of Victorian society that are less than agreeable, and the propensity for the world to want to lock away anything, or anyone, considered to be mentally unstable, or even just what we would now consider neuro-divergent. The intolerance, the mob mentality of the baying crowds, helps to build up additional layers of conflict in story that already carries a significant, if intoxicating, edge, the injustices adding to the many feelings that this story elicits. Haunting is perhaps the perfect description for the book, on so many levels, and it is most heartily recommended.
April 26, 2026
4.5 🌟
I was completely pulled into this atmospheric, dark Victorian mystery. It gave me all the gothic vibes of Rebecca and Jane Eyre -two of my all-time favourites!
The story follows Briar Monroe, who, after the tragic loss of her parents, plans to stay with her aunt… only to arrive and find her missing due to illness. Instead, she’s sent to Thornby Manor to stay with the formidable Lord Danville.
From the moment Briar arrives, Thornby Manor is wrapped in mist, unease, and secrets. What really happened to Lady Danville? And why does the governess, Marie Clara, seem to be taking her place?
I loved how the mystery slowly unraveled -layer by layer -revealing both the family’s dark past and Briar’s own past. The cast of characters is brilliantly done, with some truly chilling personalities that kept me guessing the whole time.
The asylum elements added an extra layer of intrigue, making the story even more gripping and unsettling.
Overall, such a brilliant debut and I’m excited to see what this author writes next!
I was completely pulled into this atmospheric, dark Victorian mystery. It gave me all the gothic vibes of Rebecca and Jane Eyre -two of my all-time favourites!
The story follows Briar Monroe, who, after the tragic loss of her parents, plans to stay with her aunt… only to arrive and find her missing due to illness. Instead, she’s sent to Thornby Manor to stay with the formidable Lord Danville.
From the moment Briar arrives, Thornby Manor is wrapped in mist, unease, and secrets. What really happened to Lady Danville? And why does the governess, Marie Clara, seem to be taking her place?
I loved how the mystery slowly unraveled -layer by layer -revealing both the family’s dark past and Briar’s own past. The cast of characters is brilliantly done, with some truly chilling personalities that kept me guessing the whole time.
The asylum elements added an extra layer of intrigue, making the story even more gripping and unsettling.
Overall, such a brilliant debut and I’m excited to see what this author writes next!
May 6, 2026
The heroine was a poorly-conceived anachronism in a poorly constructed pastiche of Jane Eyre and early gothic horror.
May 2, 2026
This was such a nothing burger of a book trying desperately to be Jane Eyre-esque.
April 26, 2026
This has a great gothic thriller vibe. The setting and the characters were creepy. I wish there would have been a twist. The governess manipulating the mom into thinking she was crazy would have been great. The ending just didn’t match the book. But the majority of the book was very well done.
May 14, 2026
Warwickshre, 1891. Burdened with cares she is determined to keep secret from her fragile younger sister, in the wake of their parents' deaths, Briar Monroe leaves London hoping never to return. Planning to meet her aunt and go travelling, Briar heads north. However, when her aunt's arrival is delayed by illness, Briar finds herself accepting the invitation of Lord Danville to stay at Thornby Manor.
Penniless and with few choices, Briar accepts, believing she is heading for a meeting with her aunt's old friend, Lady Elizabeth Danville. But as soon as she reaches the menacing, mist-enshrouded environs of Thornby Manor, she realises she has made a mistake. Lady Danville is dead, and in her stead presides the hostile former governess Marie Clara, dressed in fine silks more fitting to her late mistress.
Briar soon discovers that this is a house wreathed in secrets, and complicated relationships. No one wants to talk about the mysterious death of Lady Danville, the sudden dismissal of most of Thornby Manor's staff, or the creepy rumours fuelled by bumps in the night. And the sense of danger only increases when Lord Danville's charismatic son, Gabriel, returns home to confront his estranged father about the mystery surrounding his mother's untimely death...
Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes channels her obvious passion for a historical gothic novel into this delicious debut, making it a tender love letter to the genre. With the wonderfully eerie setting of an isolated mansion looming over a sombre lake, constantly surrounded by impenetrable mist (and with an insane asylum in close proximity to boot); a cast of morally grey characters handpicked to evoke the very best that classic gothic fiction has to offer; and a plot dripping with secrets, lies, betrayal, and subterfuge; this story was everything I wanted it to be, and more.
Briar makes an excellent protagonist, Weighed down with secrets of her own that she is desperate to keep, Thornby Manor is a dangerous prospect. Trapped within its dark and unsettling grip, and under the scrutiny of the horribly Mrs Danvers-esque governess Marie Clara, Briar must watch her step, but even though she has been beaten down by her experiences she has an inner spirit that refuses to be cowed. Armed with knowledge about the human psyche learned from her doctor father Briar finds friends and enemies at Thornby, and in nearby Warwick (looked over somewhat prophetically by Warwick Castle) as she delves into the mystery behind Lady Danville's death, especially when brooding, handsome Gabriel enters the fray.
Bramwell-Lawes pitches this novel beautifully between layered gothic mystery, oozing themes of grief and madness, and feminist fire-cracker. There are thrilling nods to so many of the greats when it comes to historical gothic, which entertained me no end (I especially loved the Wilkie Collins' Count Fosco reference); a mystery that will keep you guessing right until the tense climax of the novel; and a beautifully drawn relationship between two broken characters in Briar and Gabriel. I really enjoyed the exploration of power dynamics through the parts of the story about the treatment of those deemed 'mad', particularly 'difficult women', and take my hat off to the clever way the themes are subverted in the breath-taking final swathes of the novel.
This is an absolute belter of a debut. I was held spellbound from the first page to the last, and cannot wait to see how Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes' career develops... because this is an awesome beginning. More please, Stephanie!
Penniless and with few choices, Briar accepts, believing she is heading for a meeting with her aunt's old friend, Lady Elizabeth Danville. But as soon as she reaches the menacing, mist-enshrouded environs of Thornby Manor, she realises she has made a mistake. Lady Danville is dead, and in her stead presides the hostile former governess Marie Clara, dressed in fine silks more fitting to her late mistress.
Briar soon discovers that this is a house wreathed in secrets, and complicated relationships. No one wants to talk about the mysterious death of Lady Danville, the sudden dismissal of most of Thornby Manor's staff, or the creepy rumours fuelled by bumps in the night. And the sense of danger only increases when Lord Danville's charismatic son, Gabriel, returns home to confront his estranged father about the mystery surrounding his mother's untimely death...
Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes channels her obvious passion for a historical gothic novel into this delicious debut, making it a tender love letter to the genre. With the wonderfully eerie setting of an isolated mansion looming over a sombre lake, constantly surrounded by impenetrable mist (and with an insane asylum in close proximity to boot); a cast of morally grey characters handpicked to evoke the very best that classic gothic fiction has to offer; and a plot dripping with secrets, lies, betrayal, and subterfuge; this story was everything I wanted it to be, and more.
Briar makes an excellent protagonist, Weighed down with secrets of her own that she is desperate to keep, Thornby Manor is a dangerous prospect. Trapped within its dark and unsettling grip, and under the scrutiny of the horribly Mrs Danvers-esque governess Marie Clara, Briar must watch her step, but even though she has been beaten down by her experiences she has an inner spirit that refuses to be cowed. Armed with knowledge about the human psyche learned from her doctor father Briar finds friends and enemies at Thornby, and in nearby Warwick (looked over somewhat prophetically by Warwick Castle) as she delves into the mystery behind Lady Danville's death, especially when brooding, handsome Gabriel enters the fray.
Bramwell-Lawes pitches this novel beautifully between layered gothic mystery, oozing themes of grief and madness, and feminist fire-cracker. There are thrilling nods to so many of the greats when it comes to historical gothic, which entertained me no end (I especially loved the Wilkie Collins' Count Fosco reference); a mystery that will keep you guessing right until the tense climax of the novel; and a beautifully drawn relationship between two broken characters in Briar and Gabriel. I really enjoyed the exploration of power dynamics through the parts of the story about the treatment of those deemed 'mad', particularly 'difficult women', and take my hat off to the clever way the themes are subverted in the breath-taking final swathes of the novel.
This is an absolute belter of a debut. I was held spellbound from the first page to the last, and cannot wait to see how Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes' career develops... because this is an awesome beginning. More please, Stephanie!
April 27, 2026
It’s not often the writing of a debut author completely blows me away, but Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes has achieved that and more. Her writing is exquisite. Replete with a dark, brooding, Gothic atmosphere, Thornby Manor is a novel that gripped me from the beginning and didn’t let go.
Briar Monroe is a fabulously realised character. Finding herself in severely straitened circumstances, her first thought is to protect her sister from this knowledge, and to secure her sister’s good reputation in society, with no thought for her own circumstances.
With no money and nowhere to live, Briar relies on her aunt for company and support. When we first encounter Briar, she is travelling to meet her. But things don’t quite work out as anticipated, and Briar finds herself a temporary guest at Thornby Manor. Lady Danville was a friend of her mother’s, but Lord Danville, meeting Briar and inviting her to his home, neglects to mention that Lady Danville has passed away.
The house is a forbidding place. It is shrouded in mist. The few servants there live out; all are new to Thornby Manor, and none will discuss what happens there. Lord Danville has an adult son, Gabriel, but his governess, Marie Clara still presides over the house. Few rooms are occupied, a whole section of the house is locked, and Briar is not even told that there is a second floor.
Told in the first person, Thornby Manor is Briar’s narrative of her stay. Briar is spirited; she has not let her reduced circumstances quash her intrepid spirit, and she is both slightly scared and intrigued by this house and what happens in it.
The house feels hostile, and Marie Clara dictates where Briar may and may not go, sometimes subtly, other times less so.
Instinctively, Briar knows something is fundamentally wrong in this house. The servants are uneasy; there’s a strong sense of foreboding in the air, and the tension is so tight, you fear it will snap at any moment.
Then there’s Gabriel. His relationship with his father is so strained that he rarely visits when Lord Danville is in residence. He does, however, offer an opportunity for Briar to travel into town without being shadowed. What she discovers there adds another layer of fear and suspense to this story.
Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes plays on some of the injustices of Victorian society, from the position of women to the way in which mental illness is handled.
When Gabriel and Briar join forces to find the truth about what happened in Thornby Manor, and the fate of Lady Danville, sparks fly between them. The truth is revealed in a dramatic turn of events and is just as horrifying as this atmospheric novel has led you to think it might be.
Verdict: Dark, disturbing, Gothic and highly atmospheric, Thornby Manor is a riveting read and an immensely impressive debut. I can’t wait for Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes next book!
Briar Monroe is a fabulously realised character. Finding herself in severely straitened circumstances, her first thought is to protect her sister from this knowledge, and to secure her sister’s good reputation in society, with no thought for her own circumstances.
With no money and nowhere to live, Briar relies on her aunt for company and support. When we first encounter Briar, she is travelling to meet her. But things don’t quite work out as anticipated, and Briar finds herself a temporary guest at Thornby Manor. Lady Danville was a friend of her mother’s, but Lord Danville, meeting Briar and inviting her to his home, neglects to mention that Lady Danville has passed away.
The house is a forbidding place. It is shrouded in mist. The few servants there live out; all are new to Thornby Manor, and none will discuss what happens there. Lord Danville has an adult son, Gabriel, but his governess, Marie Clara still presides over the house. Few rooms are occupied, a whole section of the house is locked, and Briar is not even told that there is a second floor.
Told in the first person, Thornby Manor is Briar’s narrative of her stay. Briar is spirited; she has not let her reduced circumstances quash her intrepid spirit, and she is both slightly scared and intrigued by this house and what happens in it.
The house feels hostile, and Marie Clara dictates where Briar may and may not go, sometimes subtly, other times less so.
Instinctively, Briar knows something is fundamentally wrong in this house. The servants are uneasy; there’s a strong sense of foreboding in the air, and the tension is so tight, you fear it will snap at any moment.
Then there’s Gabriel. His relationship with his father is so strained that he rarely visits when Lord Danville is in residence. He does, however, offer an opportunity for Briar to travel into town without being shadowed. What she discovers there adds another layer of fear and suspense to this story.
Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes plays on some of the injustices of Victorian society, from the position of women to the way in which mental illness is handled.
When Gabriel and Briar join forces to find the truth about what happened in Thornby Manor, and the fate of Lady Danville, sparks fly between them. The truth is revealed in a dramatic turn of events and is just as horrifying as this atmospheric novel has led you to think it might be.
Verdict: Dark, disturbing, Gothic and highly atmospheric, Thornby Manor is a riveting read and an immensely impressive debut. I can’t wait for Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes next book!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The excitement in discovering a new author makes me feel a bit dizzy! And when a debut novel is as wonderful and beautifully written as Thornby Manor it's even more of a joy.
For me, this book brings some of my most loved things; a debut female author, a crime thriller, dark and gothic and what I especially love - the manor as a character. I mean, it even says in my Instagram bio about my loves 'house as characters'!
Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes has created something truly special with Thornby Manor, a gloriously gothic tale that completely swept me away from the very first page. Rich in atmosphere and dripping with mystery, this is one of those novels that feels tailor-made for ME!
The setting is Warwickshire in 1891, and we follow Briar Monroe who has recently been orphaned and left with nowhere to turn. She accepts the protection of Lord Danville at Thornby Manor. From the moment she arrives at the estate, Briar just knows that something is wrong beneath the surface. The mysterious death of Lady Elizabeth Danville hangs heavily over the household, the servants are scared, and the tension between Lord Danville and his son Gabriel is impossible to ignore. As strange occurrences begin to unsettle Briar further, she finds herself drawn into a web of secrets, suspicion and danger.
Briar is such a wonderfully drawn character. Intelligent, vulnerable, determined and brave. It was such a thrill to join her in the strange world of Thornby Manor, where every corridor seems to hold another secret. The sense of unease is there from the beginning and increases so much as the story unfolds.
And Thornby Manor itself! The house feels alive in the very best gothic tradition; imposing, haunting, utterly unforgettable, and just perfect for a house fan such as me! This author has an incredible talent for creating mood and atmosphere. The mist-covered lake, the locked doors, the whispers in the night and the constant feeling that someone is always watching create such a tension.
The relationships within the house are fascinating, I really enjoyed the strange dynamic between Lord Danville and his son Gabriel. The mystery at the heart of the novel is beautifully handled too, with just enough clues scattered throughout to keep me guessing while never losing that creeping gothic dread.
The writing is elegant and immersive, perfectly capturing the feel of late Victorian England without ever becoming heavy. Fans of novels such as Jane Eyre, Rebecca and The Silent Companions will find so much to love here. Thornby Manor really is a confident and captivating debut.
Dark, atmospheric and impossible to put down, this is a novel that lingers long after the final page. Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes is definitely an author to watch, and I already cannot wait to see what she writes next.
For me, this book brings some of my most loved things; a debut female author, a crime thriller, dark and gothic and what I especially love - the manor as a character. I mean, it even says in my Instagram bio about my loves 'house as characters'!
Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes has created something truly special with Thornby Manor, a gloriously gothic tale that completely swept me away from the very first page. Rich in atmosphere and dripping with mystery, this is one of those novels that feels tailor-made for ME!
The setting is Warwickshire in 1891, and we follow Briar Monroe who has recently been orphaned and left with nowhere to turn. She accepts the protection of Lord Danville at Thornby Manor. From the moment she arrives at the estate, Briar just knows that something is wrong beneath the surface. The mysterious death of Lady Elizabeth Danville hangs heavily over the household, the servants are scared, and the tension between Lord Danville and his son Gabriel is impossible to ignore. As strange occurrences begin to unsettle Briar further, she finds herself drawn into a web of secrets, suspicion and danger.
Briar is such a wonderfully drawn character. Intelligent, vulnerable, determined and brave. It was such a thrill to join her in the strange world of Thornby Manor, where every corridor seems to hold another secret. The sense of unease is there from the beginning and increases so much as the story unfolds.
And Thornby Manor itself! The house feels alive in the very best gothic tradition; imposing, haunting, utterly unforgettable, and just perfect for a house fan such as me! This author has an incredible talent for creating mood and atmosphere. The mist-covered lake, the locked doors, the whispers in the night and the constant feeling that someone is always watching create such a tension.
The relationships within the house are fascinating, I really enjoyed the strange dynamic between Lord Danville and his son Gabriel. The mystery at the heart of the novel is beautifully handled too, with just enough clues scattered throughout to keep me guessing while never losing that creeping gothic dread.
The writing is elegant and immersive, perfectly capturing the feel of late Victorian England without ever becoming heavy. Fans of novels such as Jane Eyre, Rebecca and The Silent Companions will find so much to love here. Thornby Manor really is a confident and captivating debut.
Dark, atmospheric and impossible to put down, this is a novel that lingers long after the final page. Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes is definitely an author to watch, and I already cannot wait to see what she writes next.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 Stars
I’ve been on a roll lately when it comes to intense and atmospheric reads. And I’m glad to say that Thornby Manor was no exception!
The prose was darkly decadent and overflowing with an eerie sense of foreboding, that even the likes of Daphne du Maurier would find spine-chillingly suspenseful.
It’s set in the 1890s, and was an intricately woven Rebecca-esque gothic mystery. That’s centred around an isolated Manor House with a newly arrived guest (Briony), and a hauntingly slow unraveling of the long buried secrets that have befallen the Manor’s aristocratic inhabitants, the Danvilles.
The exploration of grief, mental health, obsession and betrayal was really well done. And was an absolute masterclass in gothic, character driven storytelling; made even more impressive as this is author, Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes’ debut novel!
Sole POV protagonist, Briony, was really intriguing as well. I loved how compelling and refreshing she was to explore, especially as she doesn’t fully conform to the expectations that the era placed on women.
Honestly, I was awed by her fierce sense of justice and need defend others or find answers (questioning the status quo/ the silencing of women’s voices despite the serious risk of being committed to an asylum herself.) And found even in her deepest moments of despair (navigating grief and the loss of her parents) she never really acted like a damsel in need of saving.
There is some romance with the charismatic Gabriel (son of the Manor’s patriarch, Lord Danville) which was as deliciously intense (and mysterious) as the rest of the novel. But it’s not the main focus, so don’t go into this expecting a Romantasy.
However, if you enjoy novels with slow, psychological buildup (that play on the paranoia and moral ambiguity of its characters) then you have to consider adding this to your TBRs.
Also, thanks to Orenda Books for the stunning proof.
I’ve been on a roll lately when it comes to intense and atmospheric reads. And I’m glad to say that Thornby Manor was no exception!
The prose was darkly decadent and overflowing with an eerie sense of foreboding, that even the likes of Daphne du Maurier would find spine-chillingly suspenseful.
It’s set in the 1890s, and was an intricately woven Rebecca-esque gothic mystery. That’s centred around an isolated Manor House with a newly arrived guest (Briony), and a hauntingly slow unraveling of the long buried secrets that have befallen the Manor’s aristocratic inhabitants, the Danvilles.
The exploration of grief, mental health, obsession and betrayal was really well done. And was an absolute masterclass in gothic, character driven storytelling; made even more impressive as this is author, Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes’ debut novel!
Sole POV protagonist, Briony, was really intriguing as well. I loved how compelling and refreshing she was to explore, especially as she doesn’t fully conform to the expectations that the era placed on women.
Honestly, I was awed by her fierce sense of justice and need defend others or find answers (questioning the status quo/ the silencing of women’s voices despite the serious risk of being committed to an asylum herself.) And found even in her deepest moments of despair (navigating grief and the loss of her parents) she never really acted like a damsel in need of saving.
There is some romance with the charismatic Gabriel (son of the Manor’s patriarch, Lord Danville) which was as deliciously intense (and mysterious) as the rest of the novel. But it’s not the main focus, so don’t go into this expecting a Romantasy.
However, if you enjoy novels with slow, psychological buildup (that play on the paranoia and moral ambiguity of its characters) then you have to consider adding this to your TBRs.
Also, thanks to Orenda Books for the stunning proof.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
5 stars for this absolutely beautifully dark, historical, gothic mystery!
Thornby Manor was given a presence all of its very own, I felt as if I was transported through these pages and that I had landed squarely in front of this intimidating building that is shrouded in mist and mystery.
These characters are so fully realised, I could easily imagine them in my minds eye! They are deep and leave long lasting impressions even once the story has finished.. I still want to know more about them! I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to their story.
I LOVE the historical period the book is set in, with modernised language to match, it was done to perfection. The beautiful mix of glittering high society, the subtle insults and heated retorts are written so well! All with a gothic undertone, that really showcased the dire situation that women found themselves to be in if found to be acting either side of the dictated parameters for ‘normal behaviour’, the expression of feminist rage to be labelled something unsavoury to society for just having an opinion or for not having money, and not just women, but those that were found of unsound mind with very little reason for incarceration. You could feel the fear of the asylum, of labels that could have you shunned from society as a whole.
This book is what I have been CRAVING in a novel, I loved it so much that I had to try to pace myself because I was devouring these pages too quickly and I didn’t want it to end. I was totally enraptured by trying to figure out the answers to the dark and twisted mysteries surrounding Thornby Manor, I was shocked at every twist and turn! I loved the fact it kept me on my toes and kept me guessing right until the end!
Thank you so much for letting me be an early reader for this stunning book!
Thornby Manor was given a presence all of its very own, I felt as if I was transported through these pages and that I had landed squarely in front of this intimidating building that is shrouded in mist and mystery.
These characters are so fully realised, I could easily imagine them in my minds eye! They are deep and leave long lasting impressions even once the story has finished.. I still want to know more about them! I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to their story.
I LOVE the historical period the book is set in, with modernised language to match, it was done to perfection. The beautiful mix of glittering high society, the subtle insults and heated retorts are written so well! All with a gothic undertone, that really showcased the dire situation that women found themselves to be in if found to be acting either side of the dictated parameters for ‘normal behaviour’, the expression of feminist rage to be labelled something unsavoury to society for just having an opinion or for not having money, and not just women, but those that were found of unsound mind with very little reason for incarceration. You could feel the fear of the asylum, of labels that could have you shunned from society as a whole.
This book is what I have been CRAVING in a novel, I loved it so much that I had to try to pace myself because I was devouring these pages too quickly and I didn’t want it to end. I was totally enraptured by trying to figure out the answers to the dark and twisted mysteries surrounding Thornby Manor, I was shocked at every twist and turn! I loved the fact it kept me on my toes and kept me guessing right until the end!
Thank you so much for letting me be an early reader for this stunning book!
April 23, 2026
Wow! This incredible debut novel had me hooked from the very start. From the very first chapter, we are given tantalising glimpses of Briar Monroe’s family secret, which I was desperate to uncover.
.
Thornby Manor itself feels ominous, dark, and cut off from everything else, encased in mist and mystery. The story is deliciously gothic, unsettling, and eerie. Briar instinctively knows she’s made a mistake in agreeing to stay at Thornby Manor almost straight away, and as she tries to learn more about her new surroundings, Lord Danville, and the mysterious death of Lady Elizabeth Danville, it seems every character has a secret to hide. The writing is descriptive and immersive, bringing the Manor and it’s residents vividly to life.
.
I loved Briar—she is intelligent, brave, and outspoken (especially for the 19th century). Although there is sizzling chemistry with Gabriel, it doesn’t overshadow or take away from her own story. Thornby Manor explores how women were often silenced and deemed mad if they were slightly different from what was considered “normal” and acceptable behaviour. Briar is determined to uncover the truth, even if it puts her in danger…
.
Fans of Jane Eyre, and Rebecca are sure to love this historical gothic thriller. I can’t wait to read more from Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes.
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Thornby Manor itself feels ominous, dark, and cut off from everything else, encased in mist and mystery. The story is deliciously gothic, unsettling, and eerie. Briar instinctively knows she’s made a mistake in agreeing to stay at Thornby Manor almost straight away, and as she tries to learn more about her new surroundings, Lord Danville, and the mysterious death of Lady Elizabeth Danville, it seems every character has a secret to hide. The writing is descriptive and immersive, bringing the Manor and it’s residents vividly to life.
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I loved Briar—she is intelligent, brave, and outspoken (especially for the 19th century). Although there is sizzling chemistry with Gabriel, it doesn’t overshadow or take away from her own story. Thornby Manor explores how women were often silenced and deemed mad if they were slightly different from what was considered “normal” and acceptable behaviour. Briar is determined to uncover the truth, even if it puts her in danger…
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Fans of Jane Eyre, and Rebecca are sure to love this historical gothic thriller. I can’t wait to read more from Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes.
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