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The Memory House
Some truths aren’t buried. They’re trained to stay quiet.
Elise Warren believes the danger is in the past.
She’s wrong.
When Elise returns to her childhood home to settle her estranged father’s estate, she expects unanswered questions—especially about Ivy, the quiet girl who lived there and then vanished.
What she finds is far worse.
Her father’s psychological work wasn’t meant to heal children. It was meant to control them. And someone else may have been watching—someone who never needed to be in the room to be obeyed.
As Elise uncovers the truth, she realizes her return wasn’t an accident.
It was anticipated.
And the experiment may not be over.
Because some experiments don’t end. They wait.
Elise Warren believes the danger is in the past.
She’s wrong.
When Elise returns to her childhood home to settle her estranged father’s estate, she expects unanswered questions—especially about Ivy, the quiet girl who lived there and then vanished.
What she finds is far worse.
Her father’s psychological work wasn’t meant to heal children. It was meant to control them. And someone else may have been watching—someone who never needed to be in the room to be obeyed.
As Elise uncovers the truth, she realizes her return wasn’t an accident.
It was anticipated.
And the experiment may not be over.
Because some experiments don’t end. They wait.
209 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2026
About the author
Mary Alford
325 books1,312 followersMary Alford is a New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author who loves giving her readers the unexpected, combining unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots that result in stories the reader can’t put down. Her books have garnered several awards and nominations. Mary lives deep in the heart of Texas with her husband, two cats, and a dog. Discover more about Mary and her books at www.maryalford.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
“If you know what’s good for you, you’ll leave Coldwater and the past right now and never look back.”
At the heart of Mary Alford’s ‘The Memory House” lies a powerful, ominous atmosphere that seems to wrap the story in an invisible cloak, making for an immersive, unsettling yet compelling read. What makes this story stand out is that Coldwater Hollow seems alive; the house groans and the eerie silence heightens each noise, making the reader’s imagination Coldwater Hollow’s best ally. Mary Alford is masterful at creating sensory immersion. The reminders to “trust what you can prove” and “don’t trust your memories” invite the reader into the story and give reason to keep flipping pages.
As I got further into the story, questions started forming and I had to read to discover why someone didn’t want Elise to trust her mother or her memories, why they fled in the middle of the night, and who had access to the house, leaving clues for Elise.
I enjoyed the focus on identity, memory, trauma, and jealousy, and was in awe of the lengths someone went to feel included. I’ll remember this book for the spotlight on how helping one another through ‘the worst day ever’ strengthens bonds and precipitates healing.
I truly felt that Coldwater Hollow held secrets and was trapped by the home’s tangled past.
If you enjoy rich atmosphere and a compelling, clean psychological thriller, this is one to add to your reading list. Mary Alford doesn’t disappoint.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
At the heart of Mary Alford’s ‘The Memory House” lies a powerful, ominous atmosphere that seems to wrap the story in an invisible cloak, making for an immersive, unsettling yet compelling read. What makes this story stand out is that Coldwater Hollow seems alive; the house groans and the eerie silence heightens each noise, making the reader’s imagination Coldwater Hollow’s best ally. Mary Alford is masterful at creating sensory immersion. The reminders to “trust what you can prove” and “don’t trust your memories” invite the reader into the story and give reason to keep flipping pages.
As I got further into the story, questions started forming and I had to read to discover why someone didn’t want Elise to trust her mother or her memories, why they fled in the middle of the night, and who had access to the house, leaving clues for Elise.
I enjoyed the focus on identity, memory, trauma, and jealousy, and was in awe of the lengths someone went to feel included. I’ll remember this book for the spotlight on how helping one another through ‘the worst day ever’ strengthens bonds and precipitates healing.
I truly felt that Coldwater Hollow held secrets and was trapped by the home’s tangled past.
If you enjoy rich atmosphere and a compelling, clean psychological thriller, this is one to add to your reading list. Mary Alford doesn’t disappoint.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
September 7, 2026
It’s bright and sunny today outside my house. Inside? It’s been rainy, stormy, and gloomy all day long. Mary Alford can change the weather with just a few words!
Seriously, this one is extremely atmospheric and gives off the best kind of chilling and creepy vibe. I thoroughly enjoyed every page.
Elise is contacted by her father’s attorney and he informs her that, upon her father’s death, she has inherited the family estate—Coldwater Hollow. Just the name sends a chill through me.
Reid is a local deputy and is called out to the house to inspect a possible break in. He’s very matter of fact and direct—reminds me of Reacher, just without all the bodies dropping and language flying!
What follows is the perfect story of gaslighting that keeps you turning pages way into the night. What happened to Elise as a child? Why are her memories of living there so fragmented and hard to recall?
And who’s behind it all?
This was the perfect read for a dark and stormy night—the novel brings the atmosphere with it. I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Highly recommend!
Seriously, this one is extremely atmospheric and gives off the best kind of chilling and creepy vibe. I thoroughly enjoyed every page.
Elise is contacted by her father’s attorney and he informs her that, upon her father’s death, she has inherited the family estate—Coldwater Hollow. Just the name sends a chill through me.
Reid is a local deputy and is called out to the house to inspect a possible break in. He’s very matter of fact and direct—reminds me of Reacher, just without all the bodies dropping and language flying!
What follows is the perfect story of gaslighting that keeps you turning pages way into the night. What happened to Elise as a child? Why are her memories of living there so fragmented and hard to recall?
And who’s behind it all?
This was the perfect read for a dark and stormy night—the novel brings the atmosphere with it. I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, wow! This definitely kept me flipping pages and questioning if even I could solve this story! Wow!
Elise is heading back home after the passing of her father to claim her inheritance. But her childhood home is one she’d rather avoid, a place that triggers memories she can’t quite place. She knows the science behind it all, but even she feels confused by what is real and what is imagined from her past. When her time back at home seems to trigger back-to-back incidents, she realizes her past isn’t in her past at all. Someone is clearly watching and waiting for her!
Reid thought he was just coming to the scene one night to ease her worries, but even he sees something is off about the house. And he can’t make sense of Elise’s “memories” of her past. Both of them will need to work together to uncover the truth about her past, so she can finally move on... before whoever is watching gets too close!
I did not see all the twists and turns in this one. I was on the edge of my seat and truthfully trying to decide what was real and what was fake. The small thread of feelings growing between Elise and Reid was a nice addition as well. Wonderful story!
I gave this a 4.5, rounded to a 5 star!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Elise is heading back home after the passing of her father to claim her inheritance. But her childhood home is one she’d rather avoid, a place that triggers memories she can’t quite place. She knows the science behind it all, but even she feels confused by what is real and what is imagined from her past. When her time back at home seems to trigger back-to-back incidents, she realizes her past isn’t in her past at all. Someone is clearly watching and waiting for her!
Reid thought he was just coming to the scene one night to ease her worries, but even he sees something is off about the house. And he can’t make sense of Elise’s “memories” of her past. Both of them will need to work together to uncover the truth about her past, so she can finally move on... before whoever is watching gets too close!
I did not see all the twists and turns in this one. I was on the edge of my seat and truthfully trying to decide what was real and what was fake. The small thread of feelings growing between Elise and Reid was a nice addition as well. Wonderful story!
I gave this a 4.5, rounded to a 5 star!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When Elise Warren returns to her childhood home to settle the estate of her father, she knows that there are secrets there but what she does not know is that they are centered around her childhood. With the eeriness of a haunted Gothic house and the methodical unraveling of the truth much in the way of Alfred Hitchcock, this novel held me spellbound from beginning to end. There are mind games, budding romance, trustworthy and untrustworthy characters and so many secrets in that old mansion that it took on a character of its own. With the help of police detective Reid Carson, Elise searches for the truth of the past and uncovers a lot of unexpected and surprising secrets. The book has relentlessly escalating tension and mysterious clues popping up at various times. The problem was to try to find out what was real, what was in Elise’s mind and what was part of the hidden mysteries of the house. Not a bad problem to have since all of these clues, fake clues and red herrings made this psych thriller very entertaining to read and hard to put down. I enjoyed meeting the characters and learning about their pasts as well as their present circumstances. Mostly, I enjoyed the well-crafted plot that captivated and intrigued me all the way to the last page.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When Elise Warren inherits Coldwater Hollow after her estranged father's passing, she must confront her past.
The problem is, she doesn't really remember her childhood in the home. The few glimpses she gets in her mind, the more frustrated she gets about not knowing what kind of trauma she has blocked out.
When Elise arrives at Coldwater Hollow, she is haunted by evidence of her father's psychological treatments, on not only other patients, but her as well.
Why does she keep thinking about a girl named Ivy? Who does the mysterious music box belong to? What horrors do the journals she finds reveal?
Creepy things keep happening and a police officer, Reid, gets involved. Can he be trusted?
An investigation ensues, with the reader taken along for the ride. Can you keep up with the clues and figure out what is going on? Will the truth hurt or heal?
The Memory House is a fast paced, psychological thriller that will keep you turning the pages and second guessing everything.
I enjoyed the Gothic type atmosphere, the suspense, and the characters. I highly recommend if you're looking for a fast and engaging read!
*Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
The problem is, she doesn't really remember her childhood in the home. The few glimpses she gets in her mind, the more frustrated she gets about not knowing what kind of trauma she has blocked out.
When Elise arrives at Coldwater Hollow, she is haunted by evidence of her father's psychological treatments, on not only other patients, but her as well.
Why does she keep thinking about a girl named Ivy? Who does the mysterious music box belong to? What horrors do the journals she finds reveal?
Creepy things keep happening and a police officer, Reid, gets involved. Can he be trusted?
An investigation ensues, with the reader taken along for the ride. Can you keep up with the clues and figure out what is going on? Will the truth hurt or heal?
The Memory House is a fast paced, psychological thriller that will keep you turning the pages and second guessing everything.
I enjoyed the Gothic type atmosphere, the suspense, and the characters. I highly recommend if you're looking for a fast and engaging read!
*Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Someone is creating fear through suggestion - making ordinary objects carry more meaning than they should.
This psychological thriller will likely make you consider the validity of some of your memories. Elsie Warren receives word that her father has died and that she inherits Coldwater Hollow and the entire estate. Interesting since she hasn’t seen her father, Dr. Thomas Warren, in 24 years. Only stipulation, she must visit the house before she can sell. Don’t trust your memories, rather trust what you can prove - note left by father.
The house is old and rather overgrown, but many things are just Ike she remembers from all those years earlier. It becomes more and more difficult to find the truth as strange things begin to happen within and around the house. Deputy Reid Carter comes with her 911 call, and remains to make sure she is safe. Somehow this routine trespassing call has become something much bigger. Will she ever be able to leave Coldwater Hollow without wondering who she might be leaving behind?
An early copy was received without expectation of a positive review. These thoughts are my own.
This psychological thriller will likely make you consider the validity of some of your memories. Elsie Warren receives word that her father has died and that she inherits Coldwater Hollow and the entire estate. Interesting since she hasn’t seen her father, Dr. Thomas Warren, in 24 years. Only stipulation, she must visit the house before she can sell. Don’t trust your memories, rather trust what you can prove - note left by father.
The house is old and rather overgrown, but many things are just Ike she remembers from all those years earlier. It becomes more and more difficult to find the truth as strange things begin to happen within and around the house. Deputy Reid Carter comes with her 911 call, and remains to make sure she is safe. Somehow this routine trespassing call has become something much bigger. Will she ever be able to leave Coldwater Hollow without wondering who she might be leaving behind?
An early copy was received without expectation of a positive review. These thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a good read! Elise hasn't been back to the house she grew up in since she left with her mother twenty-four years ago. Now, she's found her father has died and that she has inherited the house. When she arrives, she finds the house hasn't changed much, not even her old bedroom. When she discovers other things, she calls the police. The officer who comes to check on her is Reid Carver. Reid's not sure what's going on; he does feel that he needs to stay to discover what is. The house makes Elise rethink everything she thought she knew. Will she come out of this alive, or will whoever is taunting her get her to change forever? I figured things out as the characters did, which is how I like it! There were quite a few twists!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A desperate search for the truth
If you are looking for a plot to keep you guessing and wondering, this is it. It kept me turning pages and having to convince myself to close the cover at bedtime.
It is a heavy plot in places as Elise explores her memories or what she thinks are her memories. Her father has used her childhood as an experiment in his clinic and changed what she remembers. This is her search for the truth.
There are plenty of twists and turns, places to rethink what you thought you had solved and step back and look again. Elise and Reid, the deputy turned personal protector, battle together to sort through the memories and clues to reveal what really happened 24 years ago.
The case was closed with a good ending, and I would like to see Elise and Reid again, to see their complete happy ending.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
If you are looking for a plot to keep you guessing and wondering, this is it. It kept me turning pages and having to convince myself to close the cover at bedtime.
It is a heavy plot in places as Elise explores her memories or what she thinks are her memories. Her father has used her childhood as an experiment in his clinic and changed what she remembers. This is her search for the truth.
There are plenty of twists and turns, places to rethink what you thought you had solved and step back and look again. Elise and Reid, the deputy turned personal protector, battle together to sort through the memories and clues to reveal what really happened 24 years ago.
The case was closed with a good ending, and I would like to see Elise and Reid again, to see their complete happy ending.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was given this book as an ARC, and this is the first book of author Mary Alford's that I have read. I was very interested in reading this book since it is a psychological suspense novel. I was pulled into it from the start as the main character, Elise, inherited her estranged father's estate, including the old house she lived in with him when she was a child. The only problem is that Elise can't remember much of her childhood. She doesn't remember a loving father, but instead, one who conducted tests on her for his career as a well-known psychologist. She returns to the old house, hoping to find answers about her lost memories. The minute she gets there, clues start appearing. It's as if the house wants to help her find herself! This book was so captivating! I recommend reading it at night, even a rainy night to get the full experience!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Elise Warren returns to her father's home to settle his estate. She has been gone for many years and doesn't really want to return but she does anyway to try to face her past or remember it. But then things start happening. Can Officer Reid help her figure out who is trying to scare or harm her? What is going on? and why is this happening? A twisted psychological story with an interesting spin.
I enjoyed reading this book. I wasn't sure at first because psycho books are not my favorite but this was a good one.
I received this complimentary book from the author but was under NO obligation to give a favorable review. The above opinion is mine. I truly enjoyed the book. I enjoy Mary Alford's books. Check it out!
I enjoyed reading this book. I wasn't sure at first because psycho books are not my favorite but this was a good one.
I received this complimentary book from the author but was under NO obligation to give a favorable review. The above opinion is mine. I truly enjoyed the book. I enjoy Mary Alford's books. Check it out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC with no expectations of a positive review. WOW! This book grabs you from the first page. It does not let go. Elsie is brought back to a time when she was ten years old leaving Coldwater Hollow and her father behind. She receives a telephone call that her father has died leaving her the his home, which is a mansion. She has had no contact with him in 24 years. Join Elsie as she goes back to a time she has little to no memory. Someone is trying to force her to remember but are her memories true.
This book is hard to put down. There are so many twists and turns. It will keep you guessing until the end.
This book is hard to put down. There are so many twists and turns. It will keep you guessing until the end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Memory House by Mary Alford is a eell written, spine tingling psychological thriller about Elise who inherits the estate of her deceased father while she’s struggling with memory loss. The plot will keep you on the edge of your seat as someone is trying to get Elise to get her memory back, but the big question is, will what she remembers be the truth? I like the author’s writing style and she did a good job creating and developing the characters. This is intriguing and a book you won’t want to put down. I received a copy of this book from the author and these opinions are strictly my own. I recommend reading it and rated it a five.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gothic Thrillers aren’t usually my favorite genre but I have to say I was enthralled in this story. At first I had many different theories going through my mind but then was a little surprised but also glad for the final outcome of this story. It was a way beyond my little brain can comprehend story too. Reminded me a hallmark movies and mysteries with a twist. Sometimes I thought I knew who the bad guy was but then others I had questioned myself. Elise and Reid’s story was unique and interesting. Even though it wasn’t a true really romance we did have a little bit of romance budding between Elise and Reid.
All in all good story I’m giving this a 4.5 star
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
All in all good story I’m giving this a 4.5 star
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Elise Warren became a grief counselor it seems to help others cope with their childhoods and life. Little did she expect to hear from an estate attorney letting her know that her estranged father had left his entire estate of Coldwater Hollow to her. She decides she must go back and settle his estate and sort through a past she can't remember. Things start happening right away and she calls the police. As she's searching, she finds hidden secrets and journals among other things that she can't believe her father did. Deputy Reid Carver receives a report of a potential intruder and responds to the call where he meets Elise whose worried someone was in the house. He clears the house and then heads home, but he gets this nagging feeling something is off and heads back to Elise. They end up working together to solve the mystery of her missing memory. It was a great mind twister and had me gripped from the get go! Really enjoyed it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Even though this story isn't to long , it packs a powerful punch. Elise has gotten a call from an attorney that her father has passed away and left her his estate, Coldwater Hollow. Elise heads to Oregon where she lived until she was ten and her Mother took her away. Her memories of the place are scattered , she doesn't know what is real or not. Her father has left her a box with a handful of things in it along with a letter as to how she is to proceed with looking through it. On top of that, there has been someone in the house and has left muddy footprints. Reid is the deputy who responds to the break-in. When he doesn't find anyone there he leaves, but something draws him back to the house. Even with Reid staying downstairs to help protect Elise, someone still enters the house and leaves little mementos. This book pulled me straight into the story and didn't release me until the last suspense-filled page. What is the real story behind Elise being taken away when she was young? Will her memories fully come back and will they be what really happened or what she believes took place? This book kept me guessing what was reality and what was the figment of someone's imagination. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are what I thought of the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this one so much. Believe you and me this will make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck especially if you read it at night. Which is when I love to read.
This book will keep you turning and guessing all the way through. Wow!
Wonderful characters that I loved in getting to know too. I kept rooting and cheering them on throughout this mystery/suspense thriller.
Alford definitely gave these characters a run for their money! She definitely puts a little of everything in her stories.
This will keep me thinking about it long after it's over it surely will!
5 stars for keeping me on my toes and for a job well done!
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review! I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
This book will keep you turning and guessing all the way through. Wow!
Wonderful characters that I loved in getting to know too. I kept rooting and cheering them on throughout this mystery/suspense thriller.
Alford definitely gave these characters a run for their money! She definitely puts a little of everything in her stories.
This will keep me thinking about it long after it's over it surely will!
5 stars for keeping me on my toes and for a job well done!
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review! I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can usually call a book as soon as I begin it. I was stumped and on the edge of my seat throughout this book! The characters are well written and the story keeps you guessing right up to the end. It has an almost supernatural eeriness to it that is delightful without all the spookiness. I am so honored to have been allowed to pre read this book before its official release! Thank you to the author for allowing me to do so!
Review of advance copy received from Author
She hasn’t seen her father in 24 years. Now Elise has learned that he has died and she has inherited her former home. But Elise doesn’t have fond memories of that house. She only has fragmented memories of another little girl who was there. But who was she?
If you like reading about secrets, unreliable memories and a layered plot this devious book has it all. I was gifted the arc and this review is my opinion without renumeration.
If you like reading about secrets, unreliable memories and a layered plot this devious book has it all. I was gifted the arc and this review is my opinion without renumeration.
September 8, 2026
I received an advanced reader copy of The Memory House by Mary Alford, and I have to say I had a hard time putting this book down! It captured me from start to finish and had me completely invested in the story.
Mary Alford does an incredible job creating suspense, mystery, and emotion while keeping the story moving at just the right pace. There were twists and moments that kept me guessing, and I found myself constantly wanting to read “just one more chapter.”
The characters were compelling, the mystery pulled me in, and the tension kept building throughout the entire book. I loved how everything came together, and the story stayed with me even when I wasn’t reading.
If you enjoy gripping Christian suspense with plenty of mystery, emotion, and unexpected turns, The Memory House is definitely one to add to your TBR!
Mary Alford does an incredible job creating suspense, mystery, and emotion while keeping the story moving at just the right pace. There were twists and moments that kept me guessing, and I found myself constantly wanting to read “just one more chapter.”
The characters were compelling, the mystery pulled me in, and the tension kept building throughout the entire book. I loved how everything came together, and the story stayed with me even when I wasn’t reading.
If you enjoy gripping Christian suspense with plenty of mystery, emotion, and unexpected turns, The Memory House is definitely one to add to your TBR!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Coldwater Hollow is a place where bad memories are made and Elise has to come back and face the music. As the story unfolds more memories come to surface for Elise. Thankfully she has the support of police officer Reid. He comes alongside of her and keeps her grounded as she faces her past so that she can live well in the present.
I was given a copy of the book. The opinions are my own.
I was given a copy of the book. The opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a psychological thriller that will grab your attention from the beginning. If you like to read mystery and suspense, this book is for you. Elise is forced to face the lies she believed as a child and find out what the truth is as an adult. This book kept me guessing until the end. It was a very good read. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a really good book. It was suspenseful but in a twisted way. Reid and Elise were incredible characters. The storyline was great and you weren’t sure what was going to be discovered. Mary did an amazing job of showing the manipulation that can happen and how much damage it can do.
“I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.”
“I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thrilling, can’t put down book. Things happen that can’t be explained. Not a night time read. Mary went over and above her usual books.
I received a copy of this from the author. The opinions expressed are my own
I received a copy of this from the author. The opinions expressed are my own
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Oh my goodness! This was amazing! It had my heart beating fast and sitting on the edge of my seat chapter after chapter! The suspense, the past secrets, and the surprised ending without a doubt deserves all five stars!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! What a great suspense read! Read this book from beginning to end and only took a couple of breaks! Full of intrigue, suspense, non stop action, and incredible characters made this such a good read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
WOW! What a suspenseful book with Elisa memories coming back to her from when she was a little girl of her dad. Elisa has to go back to her childhood home where she has not been back to for years, there she meets Reid who is a Deputy. Will he help her figure out what memories are real and what isn’t? Will they catch the one that has set out to cause so much confusion? This book will keep you guessing until the end, you won’t be able to put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Can you trust your memories from your childhood? Elise Warren thought she could until she returns to settle her estranged father's estate. Elise starts having memories of a little girl named Ivy, but is she real? This is definitely a different type of story. Elise's late father was experimenting on children's memories but was he trying to help or manipulate? Someone has been in the house before Elise arrives, but she can't figure out how. Reid, a local deputy, responds to her call and helps her uncover hidden passages and a long-lost journal of her mother's. Someone from Elise's past doesn't want the truth discovered and will do anything to make Elise doubt her memories. She and Reid have a hard time following clues but eventually find the truth. I recommend this book if you like phycological thrillers. I was given an advance copy by the author, but these are my own thoughts and words.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book pulled me right in and created a cloud of suspense and mystery that kept me reading all the way through. I read it on a rainy Sunday which added to the feelings created by the story.
This is my favorite Mary Alford book so far. I love how easily she created the perfect mystery and kept me guessing what was real and what was not throughout every page. The house is the perfect setting for mystery and an eerie sense of being watched.
I enjoyed every clue to the past that was slowly revealed and I really liked the main characters of Elise and Reid. It made this compulsively readable as we discover buried memories, hidden secrets and secret passages. This story is truly a sensory experience. I felt like I was right there in the house and experiencing the fear of someone in there with me.
I loved this book and the skill Mary Alford has for creating a story full of mystery and suspense. She has become one of my favorite authors.
This is my favorite Mary Alford book so far. I love how easily she created the perfect mystery and kept me guessing what was real and what was not throughout every page. The house is the perfect setting for mystery and an eerie sense of being watched.
I enjoyed every clue to the past that was slowly revealed and I really liked the main characters of Elise and Reid. It made this compulsively readable as we discover buried memories, hidden secrets and secret passages. This story is truly a sensory experience. I felt like I was right there in the house and experiencing the fear of someone in there with me.
I loved this book and the skill Mary Alford has for creating a story full of mystery and suspense. She has become one of my favorite authors.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh my goodness! Mary Alford has outdone herself! What a wonderfully written, eerie, psychological thriller with a plot that will have you questioning your own childhood memories. You can feel the tension and fear as you read. You think you know where things are headed..but you don't. You'll stay up late finishing this one...it's that good!
A favorite quote: "I believe God can rebuild what people damage."
"A faint uneasiness settled between Reid’s shoulders. This wasn't a teenager transpassing in an abandoned house. This was someone who knew exactly where to walk and exactly what they didn't want found."
A favorite quote: "I believe God can rebuild what people damage."
"A faint uneasiness settled between Reid’s shoulders. This wasn't a teenager transpassing in an abandoned house. This was someone who knew exactly where to walk and exactly what they didn't want found."
September 24, 2026
I loved this wonderful psychological thriller. I loved Elise and Reid. I loved how Elise must return home when her estranged father dies and leaves his home to her. I enjoyed all of the action and suspense as Elise and Reid must work as a team to piece together what happened to Elise as a child. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.
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