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The Girl of Grey House: A Gothic Tragedy

281 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 31, 2026

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J. P. Harrison

1 book7 followers

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5 stars
11 (50%)
4 stars
9 (40%)
3 stars
1 (4%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
1 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for impulsivebookworm.
51 reviews2 followers
July 12, 2026
This book was not what I expected at all! ‘The girl of grey house’ by JP Harrison is a gothic horror about a couple named Jiselle and Adam who want to move into a house together to take the next step in their relationship. They can’t afford to buy a house for themselves and so decide to house share for a while to save money. They found a cheap place to live called Grey house. Adam seems a bit oblivious when signing the agreement to the house and missed all the red flags that we ,as readers, have been fed from the beginning. One of the tenants has a strange obsession with Adam and this is when things start to go wrong.

It’s clear that authors such as Stephen King have influenced the writing in this book. I get a lot of ‘the shining’ vibes. I love how descriptive JP Harrison is throughout this book. The house is described as a living entity. It breaths. It talks. It remembers. Once Adam moves into the house, it’s very hard to tell whether the monstrosities happening in the book are real or if Adam has gone completely mental and the whole thing’s in his head. The descriptions are just spot on.

This isn’t a genre that I would usually read and I wanted to push myself. I did think it was a bit slow at the beginning as the majority of the plot and the scenes that make your heart spike, didn’t happen until the couple had moved into Grey house. As someone who wouldn’t dare to stop reading until the end of a chapter- I definitely struggled sometimes. Some chapters were over 40mins long (at my reading pace). I didn’t find those chapters boring at all but it was definitely a task keeping my attention on the book through those whoppers! However that’s a me thing and doesn’t apply to everyone.

I would highly recommend this book to be put onto your TBR list, especially for readers into gothic horror/ supernatural. I’m really grateful to JP Harrison for giving me an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. It was unlike anything I’ve ever read before and definitely something that I would consider reading again.
Profile Image for Montanna Muir.
24 reviews1 follower
July 20, 2026
The girl of grey house is a really gripping thriller that I was given the chance to receive an ARC copy for.
JP Harrison has such a unique writing style that I found refreshing and the language used and the detail in this book really helped the story come alive.

It follows Adam and Jiselle moving into their first home together (a room in Grey House) in hopes to strengthen their relationship and save up for a place of their own as the rent was so cheap it was to good to pass up but little did they know that is where things would start to go wrong.
I won’t go into much detail so that I don’t spoil the book. I found it difficult to put down as you could not predict what would happen next or how the story would end
Profile Image for Jini Sam.
129 reviews2 followers
July 24, 2026
Thank you to the author for kindly providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book is unlike anything I’ve read so far…perhaps because I have not read horror novels before. Saying that I found the book to be very intriguing and kept my attention engaged entirely while reading this book.
The writing is beautiful and poetic in a sense and makes everything feel so visceral. The characters definitely creeped me out and some scenes did test my gag reflex (if you know you know 😅).
Overall, an enjoyable read, an excellent debut and a great introduction to the genre of horror for me personally!
Profile Image for jadebookish .
65 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 16, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐

First of all, a huge thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book before publication day.

I don't read a lot of horror, but the cover and title immediately caught my attention.

The story follows a couple who decide to move in together and take the next step in their relationship. With London's rental prices being so expensive, Adam finds a house share so they can save some money. From the moment they're introduced to the house, it's obvious something isn't right. The house is run-down, the other residents are unsettling, and there are strange noises, eerie smiles, and unexplained events that create an atmosphere of unease from the very beginning.

As more of the side characters are introduced, you quickly realise just how many red flags this house has, and you're left thinking they should leave immediately. But, in true horror fashion, they stay, which only adds to the tension.

The book is written in a journal format, which I really enjoyed. It made the story feel much more personal, almost as though you were reading the characters' private thoughts and emotions. I thought the beginning was a little slow, but I believe that was intentional to build suspense. Once the foundations of the story and the characters were established, the pace picked up considerably.

I found the plot refreshing and far less predictable than I expected. I had a few theories while reading, but I was completely wrong, which made the twists even more enjoyable.

The story flowed really well throughout, and that's a testament to the author's writing style. I would absolutely read more books by this author in the future.

It's also very clear that the author has a genuine love for the horror genre. You can definitely see inspiration from classic horror films and Stephen King, while still creating a story that feels unique and engaging.
80 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 14, 2026
A gothic horror that is delivered from the heart of fears specifically around people we live with and the homes we are looking for with those we love.

This story is delivered journal style, at first I thought I was going to struggle a little with this style, as the story continued though I felt it actually really helped build the suspense and tension you already knew part of the outcome but with each word you questioned what it meant to survive, was that survival real? And ultimately how does that really stay with us after experiencing something so dark and traumatic.

There is a strong undertone of desire and relationships in this, the need for another person to survive and the price you have to pay if you want to protect those you love or just find someone to love.

The horror aspects in this are really well written, the author does a great job of really building each subtle point until it’s overflowing and you really feel for them. I grew up watching horror more than reading it and I feel that horror really needs to create that visual impression and this would make a excellent film it hits all the right notes but in your own imagination and credit should go to the author for that!

If you’re paying attention you really can see the end coming however I wasn’t expecting some of the smaller details to be added that really made the end hurt. The horror, as all good horrors do, is really about what happens if you survive your horrors and this book really does that well.
Profile Image for J. P..
Author 1 book7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 14, 2026
The Girl of Grey House is a story I wrote whilst living in a house share in north London, where I lived for almost 5 consecutive years.

Whilst living (or attempting to live) there, I was privy to theft, threats, poor hygiene, disturbing noises, and even death. Despite these things, I stayed there.

Like the books subtitle: the rent was cheap, but the cost was dear. Towards the end of my tenure my mettle was tested beyond comprehension, leading me to make the costly move to a better place.

That being said, the ray of light that struck through the gloom was the overall experience of it all, rather than the individual frustrations and day-to-day commotions. It built this book. In many ways, my life in that house share was a horror story. It is only fitting that The Girl of Grey House -- a story about the desperate measures one might take in order to foster a life within the evermore-expensive metropolis of London -- is similarly a horror story.

I hope you enjoy what I have written. It comes from a very personal place, deep inside of me, that has been brewing for almost half a decade. I would be thrilled to hear what you have to say.

J. P. Harrison

P.S. I was in great conflict over giving my own book a 5* review. In the end, I came to the conclusion that I am incredibly proud of what I've written; and who better to be my biggest fan than myself?
17 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 23, 2026
The Girl Of Grey House by J. P. Harrison is a 5 star read in my opinion. It follows Adam and his girlfriend Jiselle, both in their early twenties, as they live together in a house share in North London.

They rent a room in Grey House, a strange and enchanting home with a large apple tree in the garden. The.story follows the strange happenings that befall the unsuspecting couple whilst they live under the same roof as their 3 housemates.

There is Jack, who no-one ever sees, Janet who is nervous and shy and Moira who is the live in landlady. What will happen to Adam and Jiselle while they live in Grey House?

J. P. Harrison writes in a very accessible manner with descriptions that include all the senses. He writes with an at times old-fashioned turn of phrase reminiscent of the classic horror novels by Mary Shelley and Bram Stoker.

I loved this book. It hooked me from the first chapter and, like Grey House itself, kept reeling me in. If you like a ghostly, spooky read, The Girl Of Grey House by J. P. Harrison is definitely a book for you. I thoroughly enjoyed every page and it's hard to put down.
Profile Image for Kelly Mackenzie.
27 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
July 23, 2026
Firstly thanks to the author J.P Harrison for the arc copy.
Story follows a new couple Adam and Jiselle seeking to move jn together for the first time. Adam finds Grey house inhabited by Moira the landlady with what seems to be two other tenants Janet and the elusive Jack in room 2 who never leaves his room and has a tv blaring static all day. Upon moving In without any spoilers strange things begin to happen to both Adam and Jiselle. Adam writes most of the book as a diary which worked so well( think Jonathan in Dracula)
I absolutely loved this book. It’s an amazing gothic horror delving into madness I LOVED IT!
Anyone who loves good old fashioned Horror like Bram Stoker or Stephen king please read. Genuinely can’t wait for J.P to write more and hopefully I’ll get to read them fingers crossed
Profile Image for Mari Rose.
85 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 17, 2026
Thank you so much J.P. Harrison for this advance review copy!

I initially wasn't a fan of horror, but after reading this book, I learned to appreciate the genre! I was instantly captivated by the plot, characters, and journal entry styles!

This author describes and writes the journals in such a meticulous, intricate way that I can only appreciate the events and story-telling. Moreover, I learned to love the spooky and creepy atmosphere. It really accentuated the intensity of the book.

Additionally, I was blown away by all the plot twists and events! Half the time, I wasn't even close to thinking the story would happen that way. The author did an exceptional job with this book because I loved everything, such as the as the pacing, mystery, and spooky vibe!
Profile Image for Elise Gott.
31 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2026
This was such a good book for creepy vibes!
If you want a book that you have no idea where the story is going to take you, this is definitely the book for you! It was a quick read and definitely had me hooked. I enjoyed reading about the characters and definitely got freaked out by them!
I would have preferred a bit more information on... who some of the characters were and what their links to Grey House were, but otherwise, absolutely great story!
Profile Image for Katie.
1 review
August 2, 2026
The Girl of Grey House is a genuinely unsettling read that lingers long after you close the book. The author's richly descriptive, almost baroque prose sets it apart.

The house itself is brilliantly realised as a character in its own right, and the slow creep of dread as it tightens its grip on Adam and Jiselle is genuinely chilling. A great pick for readers who like their horror atmospheric and their tension slow-building.
Profile Image for Yaz Rei.
86 reviews
August 12, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Horror is usually not what I reach for but I (much like the protagonist) was sucked into this creepy and enchanting story!! I enjoyed how vivid and visceral all the descriptions were, and how warped the passage of time became. I also love books set in areas I know, and loved seeing Highgate through this eerie lens.

Smashed it out the park for a newer author and I can’t wait to see what they do next!
Profile Image for Terry.
1,174 reviews36 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 19, 2026
When you find a perfect place to move into. A room in a house that seems just right for your building relationship. But then it has a feeling to it. Which grows and actually throws the relationship around. What do you do?

This book is weird and creepy and definitely threw my book brain reading it. Very good
19 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 18, 2026


The Girl of Grey House by J.P. Harrison is an engrossing read that completely pulled me into its dark and unsettling world. The unpredictable gothic horror storyline kept me second-guessing every twist, and just when I thought I knew where things were heading, the story took another unexpected turn.

The atmospheric lengthy chapters allowed the mystery and dread to build naturally, creating a constant sense of chilling tension that lingered long after I finished each chapter. Rather than feeling slow, the pacing gave the haunting setting and characters room to breathe, making every revelation even more impactful.

One of my favourite aspects was the journal format—I really enjoyed the journal style writing, as it made the story feel personal, immersive, and incredibly believable. It drew me deeper into the mystery and added an extra layer of unease.

This is a brilliantly crafted gothic horror that balances suspense, atmosphere, and mystery perfectly. I genuinely couldn’t put it down and found myself thinking about it long after I turned the final page. Highly recommended for anyone who loves eerie, character-driven horror with plenty of surprises.
Profile Image for Chloe Anderson.
6 reviews
August 6, 2026
I was lucky enough to revive an ARC copy of this book and I’m so glad I did , it is gripping, haunting and gothic in the best type of way! I couldn’t put it down Jiselle and Adam’s characters were very well written! I would 100% read again
Profile Image for Bradley.
50 reviews1 follower
August 1, 2026
Very clearly self published. That’s not always a bad thing but it’s here, no actual publisher would touch this dreck.
15 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 23, 2026
* I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. *

From the very first chapters, J. P. Harrison creates such vivid descriptions that I could picture every room, every mould-covered corner of Grey House, and every unsettling moment as if I were there. Almost smelling the rotten apples at every new chapter. The atmosphere is one of the book's greatest strengths, with the house becoming just as compelling as the characters themselves.

Adam is an instantly relatable protagonist. All he wants is somewhere affordable to live in London, while he and his girlfriend, Jiselle, save for their own home, but Grey House has other plans. As the story unfolds, the house—and its unusual tenants—develop an unsettling obsession with him, creating a constant sense that something isn't quite right. The hidden foreshadowing had me gasping at every revelation. And that ending?!!

If you're a fan of horror, atmospheric mysteries, vivid writing, and a story that gradually gets under your skin, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
Profile Image for Lynz.
13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 12, 2026
A suitably creepy story with lots of surprise twists which is enough to keep you up into the night from needing to know the next part of the story or maybe from nightmares!

The ending had me in tears after going through the trauma of the story with the characters but you will need to read it to find out why.

Great book and I would advise it to all my friends and family to read.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews