What do you think?
Rate this book
Ellie McEwan #3
The House of Mystery
Ellie McEwan is a healer with a rare gift. She can see if someone is good or bad from the colour of their aura. The Surrey police don’t normally use psychics — but when DCI Bob Foreman is desperate, he turns to Ellie.
On a quiet, moonlit night, troubled teenager Ollie Cruise goes to meet an older boy down by the River Wey — and never comes home. No one seems to know anything about this mysterious new friend — and DCI Foreman suspects something very nasty has happened to Ollie. He hopes Ellie might be able to help.
Ellie has her hands full already trying to help two unusual children. Five-year-old Harry sketches WWII bomber planes with uncanny technical detail. Eight-year-old Christopher writes chilling stories of events before they actually happen.
Then a man driving home from work comes across a boy’s body by the side of the road. He covers it with a blanket and goes to fetch help. On his return, he finds the blanket . . . but no body.
Ellie realises the boys are connected to something very dangerous.
She follows the trail to an isolated mansion deep in the woods, home to the mysterious Eleventh House — and to an extraordinary secret.
This utterly gripping supernatural mystery, full of twists and turns, is something rather different from bestselling crime writer Joy Ellis — and will keep you enthralled to the last page.
On a quiet, moonlit night, troubled teenager Ollie Cruise goes to meet an older boy down by the River Wey — and never comes home. No one seems to know anything about this mysterious new friend — and DCI Foreman suspects something very nasty has happened to Ollie. He hopes Ellie might be able to help.
Ellie has her hands full already trying to help two unusual children. Five-year-old Harry sketches WWII bomber planes with uncanny technical detail. Eight-year-old Christopher writes chilling stories of events before they actually happen.
Then a man driving home from work comes across a boy’s body by the side of the road. He covers it with a blanket and goes to fetch help. On his return, he finds the blanket . . . but no body.
Ellie realises the boys are connected to something very dangerous.
She follows the trail to an isolated mansion deep in the woods, home to the mysterious Eleventh House — and to an extraordinary secret.
This utterly gripping supernatural mystery, full of twists and turns, is something rather different from bestselling crime writer Joy Ellis — and will keep you enthralled to the last page.
430 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 19, 2026
1110 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Joy Ellis
63 books2,489 followersJoy Ellis grew up in Kent but moved to London when she won an apprenticeship with the prestigious Mayfair florist, Constance Spry Ltd. Having run her own flower shop in Weybridge for many years, Ellis then worked as a bookseller until a trip to the Greek island of Skyros, where she took part in a writer's workshop with Sue Townsend, encouraged her to write her own books. Joy soon after moved to the Lincolnshire Fens, where she has spent many of years living among the countryside accompanied by her partner, Jacqueline, and her variety of springer spaniels. After many years of writing, Jasper Joffe, from Joffe Books, discovered Joy's work and approached her with the offer of becoming her new publisher. This new relationship introduced Joy's work to the fascinating world of ebooks and audible listening. Since their partnership, Joy's success has grown further than she could have ever imagined. She has recently celebrated her 10th UK No.1 book on the Amazon 'Best Sellers' chart, with her 9th instalment in the Jackman & Evans series, Solace House. Joy boasts a staggering estimated total over 3.4 million copies sold worldwide, and became a short-listed nominee at the British Book Awards, 2021.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
January 26, 2026
WOW. Just… WOW. I honestly don’t even know where to start, except to say I loved this book. I went in knowing nothing — and I am so, so glad I didn’t read the blurb beforehand. Nothing could have prepared me for the intensity, the atmosphere, and the sheer perfection of how Joy Ellis has crafted this story. From the very first page, I was completely absorbed. The scene setting was flawless, the tension relentless, and the world Ellie inhabits felt so vivid that I could see, hear, and feel every shadow, every heartbeat, every flicker of danger.
There’s a moment in the book where they talk about seeing the aura around people, and it completely stayed with me. And when I say “seeing the aura,” I don’t mean just colours or energy — I mean being able to tell when someone is carrying darkness, when someone is in trouble, and being able to help them find the light, the joy, the hope they need. That idea made my heart ache in the best way. It reminded me that, at its core, this story is about humanity, compassion, and the courage to bring light into even the darkest situations.
Early on, I felt hints that I might be missing something from the first two books — a traumatic case that brought these characters together, forged unbreakable friendships, and made them stronger for what came next. I haven’t read the earlier novels yet (though I do have them waiting on my Kindle!), and not knowing didn’t stop me from following or loving this story. But it does make me curious. Whatever happened in the past, it clearly shaped these people and their bonds, and I hope that thread is explored in those earlier books — or maybe it’s a story that will continue to unfold across the series. Either way, it doesn’t matter, because I’ll be here, eagerly waiting for the next book, no matter what.
What truly blew me away, though, was the emotional pull. Yes, the suspense and tension had me racing through the pages, heart in my throat, but the depth of feeling is what really stays with you. The children, the danger, the darkness creeping in… and yet, the hope, the courage, and the humanity shine through in ways that are both uplifting and haunting. There’s an extraordinary balance here — a story that is thrilling, chilling, and deeply moving all at once.
This book made me want to shut out the world and read. I don’t usually pick up stories like this, and yet, I couldn’t put it down. I am desperate to go back and read the first two books in this series, but finishing this one left me feeling full, exhilarated, and completely obsessed. Joy Ellis has created something extraordinary — a story that grips you, haunts you, and makes you care so deeply about the people in it that you don’t want to leave their world.
If you are looking for a book that will grab you from the first page, refuse to let go, and leave you thinking about it long after you’ve finished, The House of Mystery is it. Seriously. Everyone needs to read this book. I can’t recommend it highly enough. This isn’t just a story. It’s an experience. And it will stay with you forever.
There’s a moment in the book where they talk about seeing the aura around people, and it completely stayed with me. And when I say “seeing the aura,” I don’t mean just colours or energy — I mean being able to tell when someone is carrying darkness, when someone is in trouble, and being able to help them find the light, the joy, the hope they need. That idea made my heart ache in the best way. It reminded me that, at its core, this story is about humanity, compassion, and the courage to bring light into even the darkest situations.
Early on, I felt hints that I might be missing something from the first two books — a traumatic case that brought these characters together, forged unbreakable friendships, and made them stronger for what came next. I haven’t read the earlier novels yet (though I do have them waiting on my Kindle!), and not knowing didn’t stop me from following or loving this story. But it does make me curious. Whatever happened in the past, it clearly shaped these people and their bonds, and I hope that thread is explored in those earlier books — or maybe it’s a story that will continue to unfold across the series. Either way, it doesn’t matter, because I’ll be here, eagerly waiting for the next book, no matter what.
What truly blew me away, though, was the emotional pull. Yes, the suspense and tension had me racing through the pages, heart in my throat, but the depth of feeling is what really stays with you. The children, the danger, the darkness creeping in… and yet, the hope, the courage, and the humanity shine through in ways that are both uplifting and haunting. There’s an extraordinary balance here — a story that is thrilling, chilling, and deeply moving all at once.
This book made me want to shut out the world and read. I don’t usually pick up stories like this, and yet, I couldn’t put it down. I am desperate to go back and read the first two books in this series, but finishing this one left me feeling full, exhilarated, and completely obsessed. Joy Ellis has created something extraordinary — a story that grips you, haunts you, and makes you care so deeply about the people in it that you don’t want to leave their world.
If you are looking for a book that will grab you from the first page, refuse to let go, and leave you thinking about it long after you’ve finished, The House of Mystery is it. Seriously. Everyone needs to read this book. I can’t recommend it highly enough. This isn’t just a story. It’s an experience. And it will stay with you forever.
January 31, 2026
Just couldn't put this one down. There's a mix of themes and whilst we're presented with a thriller with police work, there's also psychic phenomena added in; and that adds a whole other dynamic regarding intuition and investigation.
Ellie and Michael have a fascinating partnership on the back of their previous involvement/relationships with Vera and Carole. It's a great set up and does a lot of good for the people that come to them. Vera and Carole are still very much involved but not in a way that you'd expect.
Things start to get complicated when children go missing and the police investigation has an interesting element to it. I quite liked how it all links and without prejudice. There is a huge amount of detail in the storytelling so you quickly settle in to the character's journeys. Most are easy to identify as good characters but there are a few that you aren't clear about to begin with. Very much a mystery and it adds to story development; and the suspense as all things are brought together.
I really enjoyed the story and liked the characters. Would love to see where their skills take them next!!
Ellie and Michael have a fascinating partnership on the back of their previous involvement/relationships with Vera and Carole. It's a great set up and does a lot of good for the people that come to them. Vera and Carole are still very much involved but not in a way that you'd expect.
Things start to get complicated when children go missing and the police investigation has an interesting element to it. I quite liked how it all links and without prejudice. There is a huge amount of detail in the storytelling so you quickly settle in to the character's journeys. Most are easy to identify as good characters but there are a few that you aren't clear about to begin with. Very much a mystery and it adds to story development; and the suspense as all things are brought together.
I really enjoyed the story and liked the characters. Would love to see where their skills take them next!!
January 23, 2026
🏚 A house with teeth 🏚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Some houses don’t just hide secrets. They guard them.”
Joy Ellis blends police procedural grit with a chilling paranormal edge, ensuring The House of Mystery sinks its hooks in early. A missing boy, children who know far too much, and a forest-bound mansion that hums with menace; this is a story where dread seeps rather than screams.
Ellie McEwan is a quietly compelling guide through the darkness, her psychic gift treated with care rather than gimmick. The children are the real hauntings: eerie, vulnerable, and unforgettable. Ellis is especially good at creating that creeping sense of wrongness—the feeling that fate is already moving, and as a reader, you’re powerless to stop it.
Sinister, compassionate, and steadily unsettling, this is a mystery that believes in the shadows—and it had me checking them out, too.
Verdict: A smart, spooky thriller that balances heart and horror—and leaves the lights on long after the last page.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Some houses don’t just hide secrets. They guard them.”
Joy Ellis blends police procedural grit with a chilling paranormal edge, ensuring The House of Mystery sinks its hooks in early. A missing boy, children who know far too much, and a forest-bound mansion that hums with menace; this is a story where dread seeps rather than screams.
Ellie McEwan is a quietly compelling guide through the darkness, her psychic gift treated with care rather than gimmick. The children are the real hauntings: eerie, vulnerable, and unforgettable. Ellis is especially good at creating that creeping sense of wrongness—the feeling that fate is already moving, and as a reader, you’re powerless to stop it.
Sinister, compassionate, and steadily unsettling, this is a mystery that believes in the shadows—and it had me checking them out, too.
Verdict: A smart, spooky thriller that balances heart and horror—and leaves the lights on long after the last page.
January 22, 2026
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Zooloo's Book Tours.
I don't think I've read anything by this author before, but now having read this one, I think I would like to read more.
This was an interesting book with some interesting and likeable characters. I found Ellie a very interesting character, especially with her gift of auric sight. Callum was another character that I enjoyed, and he reminded me of someone I used to know.
This was a police procedural, and it felt cosy for me, but at the same time, it had an eerie element that surprised me, and it was a combination which had me turning the pages.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
I don't think I've read anything by this author before, but now having read this one, I think I would like to read more.
This was an interesting book with some interesting and likeable characters. I found Ellie a very interesting character, especially with her gift of auric sight. Callum was another character that I enjoyed, and he reminded me of someone I used to know.
This was a police procedural, and it felt cosy for me, but at the same time, it had an eerie element that surprised me, and it was a combination which had me turning the pages.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
February 8, 2026
I read The House of Mystery through the Millions and Edioak Reader Program, and it delivered exactly what the title promises, a story packed with suspense, secrets, and an eerie sense of unease.
The setting feels like its own character, with a constant haunting atmosphere that keeps the tension alive. The plot unfolds with steady intrigue, pulling you deeper into hidden truths and unexpected turns.
The pacing is smooth, balancing mystery and suspense without dragging, and the overall tone stays dark and gripping throughout.
If you enjoy moody, suspense-driven stories with creepy vibes and a strong mystery element, this one is a solid pick. The Millions and Edioak Reader Program helped me discover a book that was genuinely engaging and chilling.
The setting feels like its own character, with a constant haunting atmosphere that keeps the tension alive. The plot unfolds with steady intrigue, pulling you deeper into hidden truths and unexpected turns.
The pacing is smooth, balancing mystery and suspense without dragging, and the overall tone stays dark and gripping throughout.
If you enjoy moody, suspense-driven stories with creepy vibes and a strong mystery element, this one is a solid pick. The Millions and Edioak Reader Program helped me discover a book that was genuinely engaging and chilling.
January 26, 2026
3 1/2 Stars: An unusual novel about supernatural gifts, children and the police. What I liked: the children; the Eleventh House and its gathering of people; the Center and all the ways in which they help others heal; Lucy and Callum; the original benefactors; how the police team steps in to help; the ending. What I didn’t like: the writing was so whimsical that it seemed, at times, not to take seriously the threats against the children; the weird guard gate man and the false Jago, and how it wasn’t really ever explained; the head of the school and how she gave permission, which didn’t seem realistic; the buildup of “evil is coming.” Overall a charming book that was just okay.
February 4, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, where Ellie is once again faced with paranormal puzzles. I always keep an open mind to 'other' as none of us know everything and maybe anything is possible?
There were numerous characters, all of which had an important role. The story switched between each, all gathering the plot to its conclusion.
I found it strange that the more I read, the more believable it became...very well done.
Well-written with plenty of tension and suspense, while reality mixed with mystery and the supernatural.
Entertaining, enjoyable and engaging.
Recommended.
There were numerous characters, all of which had an important role. The story switched between each, all gathering the plot to its conclusion.
I found it strange that the more I read, the more believable it became...very well done.
Well-written with plenty of tension and suspense, while reality mixed with mystery and the supernatural.
Entertaining, enjoyable and engaging.
Recommended.
March 8, 2026
For the good of mankind.
This is a really great book. The story flows like a gentle stream, with a feel good factor that seems to ride along on its gentle currents. It’s a story that pits good against evil and even though at times it seems like it, there is only one true winner. It’s a story that may just open up that bit of curiosity in your mind, as to whether all we see in the world is really as it seems but mostly it’s a story that tells us that there is help out there for us all, if we look for it. Happy reading.
This is a really great book. The story flows like a gentle stream, with a feel good factor that seems to ride along on its gentle currents. It’s a story that pits good against evil and even though at times it seems like it, there is only one true winner. It’s a story that may just open up that bit of curiosity in your mind, as to whether all we see in the world is really as it seems but mostly it’s a story that tells us that there is help out there for us all, if we look for it. Happy reading.
January 31, 2026
I am not really a believer in ghosts or the paranormal however this book and the previous ones certainly make you re-evaluate this. If you usually read Joy Ellis books, then take note that there are no murders per se in this story and it is a very emotional read at times ( yes I shed a few tears along the way!). I am usually the gory gruesome type reader but this gives you the chance to step outside your comfort zone and have a rethink about life. The best one so far.
January 31, 2026
The House of Mystery by Joy Ellis.
Book 3 of Ellie McEwen.
Wow. I really did enjoy this book. I love this series. I couldn't put it down. I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I loved the writing style and the story. Joy is one of my favourite authors. I did love Ellie character. I loved when Ellie saw Carole. That was my favourite part. I also love when they say about seeing auras. I could see it in my mind. This is one series I definitely recommend reading.
Book 3 of Ellie McEwen.
Wow. I really did enjoy this book. I love this series. I couldn't put it down. I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I loved the writing style and the story. Joy is one of my favourite authors. I did love Ellie character. I loved when Ellie saw Carole. That was my favourite part. I also love when they say about seeing auras. I could see it in my mind. This is one series I definitely recommend reading.
February 1, 2026
This is the third book in the series ‘Ellie McEwan.
I have read this as a standalone book, it is absolutely fantastic, very beautiful writing. The story plot is unusual and very unique. This book is unlike I have read before, even though there are some bad parts overall there is paranormal elements, plenty of psychic abilities and it is just a wonderful read. I absolutely adore the main team, Ellie, Callum, Michael. They work in an incredible setting. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I have read this as a standalone book, it is absolutely fantastic, very beautiful writing. The story plot is unusual and very unique. This book is unlike I have read before, even though there are some bad parts overall there is paranormal elements, plenty of psychic abilities and it is just a wonderful read. I absolutely adore the main team, Ellie, Callum, Michael. They work in an incredible setting. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
February 5, 2026
The House Of Mystery by Joy Ellis
🌟🌟🌟💫
A first from this author. Not my usual genre but I enjoyed it. 3rd book in the series, but can be read as a standalone. Set in Cavendish-Meyer Healing Centre, bequeathed by Vera and Carole. The doctors who work in the centre have gifts. They can see people's auras and have psychic gifts.
Children with gifts go missing. Can the doctors help the police with their enquiries
An enjoyable read and page turner
🌟🌟🌟💫
A first from this author. Not my usual genre but I enjoyed it. 3rd book in the series, but can be read as a standalone. Set in Cavendish-Meyer Healing Centre, bequeathed by Vera and Carole. The doctors who work in the centre have gifts. They can see people's auras and have psychic gifts.
Children with gifts go missing. Can the doctors help the police with their enquiries
An enjoyable read and page turner
January 20, 2026
The House of Mystery another excellent book written by a brilliant author.
I always take my time reading any books from my favourite authors as I also love being part of the team to solve the crime.
Joy Ellis is a wonderful author and if you like crime novels start reading Joy's books cause they are brilliant
I always take my time reading any books from my favourite authors as I also love being part of the team to solve the crime.
Joy Ellis is a wonderful author and if you like crime novels start reading Joy's books cause they are brilliant
January 28, 2026
A superb read.
Of one believes in the good and evil that is going around the world at this time, then be prepared to read that good does overcome evil.
This book will keep you up until the small hours and if you don't fancy reading this lovely book, please give it a try, I can promise you won't be disappointed, it's been one of the best books I have read in a long time.
Of one believes in the good and evil that is going around the world at this time, then be prepared to read that good does overcome evil.
This book will keep you up until the small hours and if you don't fancy reading this lovely book, please give it a try, I can promise you won't be disappointed, it's been one of the best books I have read in a long time.
February 5, 2026
A very good story
This book has several plot twists and a very large cast of characters that at first was difficult for me to keep straight. But thanks to Joy Ellis‘s superb writing everything comes together at the end in a very satisfying way I enjoyed this book immensely. it can be read as a standalone, but I do wish I had read the first two before reading this one
This book has several plot twists and a very large cast of characters that at first was difficult for me to keep straight. But thanks to Joy Ellis‘s superb writing everything comes together at the end in a very satisfying way I enjoyed this book immensely. it can be read as a standalone, but I do wish I had read the first two before reading this one
February 6, 2026
Wonderful
Not my normal genre but I really enjoy this series of books. This third one does not disappoint. It's exciting, touching and dark. The characters work so well together. Joy Ellis is a brilliant writer. Her words just flow off the page with ease. Hopefully there will be more.
Not my normal genre but I really enjoy this series of books. This third one does not disappoint. It's exciting, touching and dark. The characters work so well together. Joy Ellis is a brilliant writer. Her words just flow off the page with ease. Hopefully there will be more.
February 13, 2026
Absolutely superb
Thank you so much for continuing this series. I’ve really enjoyed the roller coaster that led us further and further into the esoteric but with enough grounded characters to keep it real. You got the balance perfect. Please please please write more in this series, I loved it
Thank you so much for continuing this series. I’ve really enjoyed the roller coaster that led us further and further into the esoteric but with enough grounded characters to keep it real. You got the balance perfect. Please please please write more in this series, I loved it
January 25, 2026
The Ellie McEwan books are different from the author's police procedurals but are equally as well-written and intriguing. I so enjoy her writing; her plotting is superb, pacing is excellent, the settings are alive, and the characters and dialogue are realistic and relatable.
January 26, 2026
They never stop talking
I frankly couldn't take any more. If there were evil spirits running amok with the children, all the yammering would have driven them off looking for other hosts.
I frankly couldn't take any more. If there were evil spirits running amok with the children, all the yammering would have driven them off looking for other hosts.
January 27, 2026
Totally different read
I didn't know what to expect from this book, and was a bit suspect of a psychic thriller. The characters are strong enough to make the reader open to believe what happens, and to want to see the story through to the end. Lots to think about......
I didn't know what to expect from this book, and was a bit suspect of a psychic thriller. The characters are strong enough to make the reader open to believe what happens, and to want to see the story through to the end. Lots to think about......
January 28, 2026
Beautifully written - and we are not alone.
It's strange, when I read this book, I felt so calm & could smell lilacs. It's beautifully written with the best of human beings - just what we need in this messy world, a better place.
It's strange, when I read this book, I felt so calm & could smell lilacs. It's beautifully written with the best of human beings - just what we need in this messy world, a better place.
January 31, 2026
OK if you like fantasy
A ridiculous plot that is not well written, especially the last two chapters. But, if you are interested in a story that includes auras, chakras, telepathy, spirit guides and other such nonsense you will probably enjoy it.
A ridiculous plot that is not well written, especially the last two chapters. But, if you are interested in a story that includes auras, chakras, telepathy, spirit guides and other such nonsense you will probably enjoy it.
February 4, 2026
the house of mystery
I love this book, so well written, it’s got everything, good, evil, love, hate, suspense, intrigue. The characters are wonderful as is the plot, I just couldn’t put it down.
I love this book, so well written, it’s got everything, good, evil, love, hate, suspense, intrigue. The characters are wonderful as is the plot, I just couldn’t put it down.
February 4, 2026
A story of mystery!
A house that didn't exist or did it ?.one of joys stories full of mystery and wonder.make of it what you will I leave it up to you everyone will have a different opinion.
A house that didn't exist or did it ?.one of joys stories full of mystery and wonder.make of it what you will I leave it up to you everyone will have a different opinion.
February 10, 2026
Spiritual mystery book
An enjoyable spiritual mystery book is hard to find. Especially written by a famous and prolific crime writer. A good adventure and I hope Ms Ellis writes some more about Ellie and Co.
An enjoyable spiritual mystery book is hard to find. Especially written by a famous and prolific crime writer. A good adventure and I hope Ms Ellis writes some more about Ellie and Co.
February 13, 2026
What a lovely read. I've come to enjoy the adventures of Ellie & Michael in their quest to make everything good. Especially with the help of Bob and Wendy, who try to keep their feet firmly on the ground. Such a great partnership all round, especially with newcomers Callum and Trevor on board.
February 19, 2026
A bit weirder than the previous two
Well..........., a weird story that ended up not being as open ans shut as first thought.
Loved the characters although keeping a track of them all wasn't easy
I enjoyed the book and think it has come to a natural ending, no cliffhangers
Well..........., a weird story that ended up not being as open ans shut as first thought.
Loved the characters although keeping a track of them all wasn't easy
I enjoyed the book and think it has come to a natural ending, no cliffhangers
February 25, 2026
Really not sure about these “mystery” books, having read all three and being a Joy Ellis fan, I wouldn’t recommend them however, if you have never read any of her detective series of books and you like fantasy then give them a go, they are good stories but not of her usual standard.
March 16, 2026
The House of Mystery
Another thoroughly interesting mystery read from Joy Ellis with a very unusual but intriguing plot and so well presented that continuous reading was encouraged throughout. Thanks Joy
Another thoroughly interesting mystery read from Joy Ellis with a very unusual but intriguing plot and so well presented that continuous reading was encouraged throughout. Thanks Joy
January 26, 2026
Thoroughly enjoyable third in series. My highest of high compliments: I will read this series again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews