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The Forgotten Room
Can the past ever be forgotten?
As soon as nurse Maura Lyle sets foot inside the foreboding Essen Grange, she feels shivers ripple down her spine. And the sense of unease only increases when she meets her new patient, Gordon Henderson.
Drawn into the Henderson family’s tangled web of secrets and betrayals, Maura can ignore the danger lurking behind every door no longer. Even the door she has been forbidden from opening…
Essen Grange is a house with dark and cruel intentions. But now that darkness has turned on her, can Maura escape before it’s too late?
The chilling new novel from the bestselling author of The Lost Child and The Silent Girls. Perfect for fans of Erin Kelly, Claire Mackintosh and Tracy Buchanan.
As soon as nurse Maura Lyle sets foot inside the foreboding Essen Grange, she feels shivers ripple down her spine. And the sense of unease only increases when she meets her new patient, Gordon Henderson.
Drawn into the Henderson family’s tangled web of secrets and betrayals, Maura can ignore the danger lurking behind every door no longer. Even the door she has been forbidden from opening…
Essen Grange is a house with dark and cruel intentions. But now that darkness has turned on her, can Maura escape before it’s too late?
The chilling new novel from the bestselling author of The Lost Child and The Silent Girls. Perfect for fans of Erin Kelly, Claire Mackintosh and Tracy Buchanan.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2017
259 people are currently reading
652 people want to read
About the author
Ann Troup
6 books49 followersShe lives by the sea in Devon with her husband and said dog. Two children have been known to remember the house which they call home, but mainly when they are in need of a decent roast dinner, it’s Christmas or when only Mum will do. In a former incarnation she was psychiatric nurse, an experience that frequently informs her writing and which supplies a never-ending source of inspiration. You can contact Ann on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
June 18, 2018
3.5 stars
An intriguing mystery and police procedural based around an old, gothic mansion and the secrets of the family who lives within its walls.
This was a deeply woven story with a large cast of characters. After a skull is found on the grounds of an old house and a massive drama unfolds, like dominos falling down - one suspicious death after another. And a nurse who has been called in to help is caught in directly in the middle. Who is responsible for all the crazy things that are happening? What really happened inside the house?
This is equal parts mystery and police procedural, I definitely enjoyed the perspective from the detectives as it was intriguing how they operate. And the comic relief from some of the officers was very well received in this gruesome tale.
A bit too grizzly for my taste, but overall a very strong and well written story that I would recommend if you’re not of the faint of heart.
Thank you to HQ Digital for my review copy. This book is now available.
An intriguing mystery and police procedural based around an old, gothic mansion and the secrets of the family who lives within its walls.
This was a deeply woven story with a large cast of characters. After a skull is found on the grounds of an old house and a massive drama unfolds, like dominos falling down - one suspicious death after another. And a nurse who has been called in to help is caught in directly in the middle. Who is responsible for all the crazy things that are happening? What really happened inside the house?
This is equal parts mystery and police procedural, I definitely enjoyed the perspective from the detectives as it was intriguing how they operate. And the comic relief from some of the officers was very well received in this gruesome tale.
A bit too grizzly for my taste, but overall a very strong and well written story that I would recommend if you’re not of the faint of heart.
Thank you to HQ Digital for my review copy. This book is now available.
October 3, 2017
Maura Lyle had been going through some struggles in her life but she's determined to get back to her nursing career and her love of helping her patients. Maura had been contacted to take on a private care job at Essen Grange taking care of Gordon Henderson and when told she was asked for specifically she decides to take on the job. After arriving at Essen Grange however Maura begins to wonder just what she's gotten herself into when she first glimpses the foreboding manor.
After arriving Maura finds herself with a patient that is going to be tougher than she thought dealing with when at first meeting he bites into her but she remains calm and soon has it under control. However when the other employee of the house leaves Maura finds things begin to happen within the house which put her on edge. The secrets within Essen Grange seems to run deep and it becomes obvious there is danger lurking within the walls leaving Maura to question just how long she can remain at the estate.
The Forgotton Room by Ann Troup is a mystery read with a twinge of horror within with the creepy setting in the story. Perfect for this time of year I was quite excited to dive into this book and see just where the story would take me. When finished however I'm a bit torn on how I wanted to rate this one as it's one of those book that there's a lot of good but some things that didn't quite agree with me too.
Starting out I was quite interested in Maura and what was happening within the walls of the house as she arrived for her nursing job. The story was one that grabbed me right away and had quite the intensity as things begin to happen. However, as it went on the style changed and I wasn't quite a fan of it at that point. You start with Maura's point of view along with some bits of a creepy unknown person but midway or so the police are involved and the point of view is changing over to them. Towards the end that becomes more of a telling the reader instead of showing them events type of writing which was where I thought it sort of fizzled from the intriguing first section.
In the end I've decided to rate this one at 3.5 stars overall. It's certainly a dark and creepy tale which was quite what I was hoping for but the end just seemed to rush to tell how all of the events connected instead of taking a bit slower route to resolve everything like the pacing the first half or more of the story had been.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
After arriving Maura finds herself with a patient that is going to be tougher than she thought dealing with when at first meeting he bites into her but she remains calm and soon has it under control. However when the other employee of the house leaves Maura finds things begin to happen within the house which put her on edge. The secrets within Essen Grange seems to run deep and it becomes obvious there is danger lurking within the walls leaving Maura to question just how long she can remain at the estate.
The Forgotton Room by Ann Troup is a mystery read with a twinge of horror within with the creepy setting in the story. Perfect for this time of year I was quite excited to dive into this book and see just where the story would take me. When finished however I'm a bit torn on how I wanted to rate this one as it's one of those book that there's a lot of good but some things that didn't quite agree with me too.
Starting out I was quite interested in Maura and what was happening within the walls of the house as she arrived for her nursing job. The story was one that grabbed me right away and had quite the intensity as things begin to happen. However, as it went on the style changed and I wasn't quite a fan of it at that point. You start with Maura's point of view along with some bits of a creepy unknown person but midway or so the police are involved and the point of view is changing over to them. Towards the end that becomes more of a telling the reader instead of showing them events type of writing which was where I thought it sort of fizzled from the intriguing first section.
In the end I've decided to rate this one at 3.5 stars overall. It's certainly a dark and creepy tale which was quite what I was hoping for but the end just seemed to rush to tell how all of the events connected instead of taking a bit slower route to resolve everything like the pacing the first half or more of the story had been.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
November 6, 2017
I knew right away that I wanted to read The Forgotten Room by Ann Troup. The blurb was interesting enough for me to know that this book would be something that would most likely suit me. Also, I've read the previous two books that Troup has written and they both were good. So, the question this time was would this one be just as good?
First I want to say that creepy old houses are a favorite thing for me and I was not disappointed. Right from the start does one get a feeling that something is wrong here. That Maura Lyle has stepped into a situation that she will regret. But, after recent events that have shaken her life is she ready for a change, and that she will get. The question is, just want is the house hiding?
Now, I don't want to give away too much of the story. But, I will point out that I was surprised by the twist and turns the book took. At first, the story seemed pretty straightforward with Maura getting to know the Henderson family. But, seriously, the story got pretty twisted the last half of the book. And, the great thing about this book is that it managed to balance the storyline so well that it never got too much. Things happened that could have tipped the story to be too ridiculous, but it kept on avoiding that that trap all the way through.
The Forgotten Room is a great book. It's twisted and interesting and I can't wait to find out what Ann Troup will publish next!
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
First I want to say that creepy old houses are a favorite thing for me and I was not disappointed. Right from the start does one get a feeling that something is wrong here. That Maura Lyle has stepped into a situation that she will regret. But, after recent events that have shaken her life is she ready for a change, and that she will get. The question is, just want is the house hiding?
Now, I don't want to give away too much of the story. But, I will point out that I was surprised by the twist and turns the book took. At first, the story seemed pretty straightforward with Maura getting to know the Henderson family. But, seriously, the story got pretty twisted the last half of the book. And, the great thing about this book is that it managed to balance the storyline so well that it never got too much. Things happened that could have tipped the story to be too ridiculous, but it kept on avoiding that that trap all the way through.
The Forgotten Room is a great book. It's twisted and interesting and I can't wait to find out what Ann Troup will publish next!
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
November 22, 2017
To me this sounded like a good gothic mystery to read during these cold nights. You have an old rambling house that seems to suck the soul right out you and it does. Maura accepts a nursing job taking care of its old dementia ridden resident. Not long after bones are discovered in the ground that once belonged to this resident. The question that’s in everybody’s mind is who they belonged to and how long have they been there. Maura starts feeling creeped out by the house and a few strange things start happening. Maura has already been battling depression since the death of her boyfriend and doesn’t feel comfortable in the house. After more bodies start turning up dead and being accused of murder, Maura needs to get out as soon as possible.
I thought the creepiness of this book was spot on and I admit to be startled at times. The book had a good pace and kept me reading late into the night. I would definitely read more by this author! Be aware that there’s lots of deception going on and secrets are slowly revealed.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I thought the creepiness of this book was spot on and I admit to be startled at times. The book had a good pace and kept me reading late into the night. I would definitely read more by this author! Be aware that there’s lots of deception going on and secrets are slowly revealed.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2021
Creepy! Definitely CREEPY
I wouldn’t go near this house if you paid me.
Deception, secrets, lies it’s all here within the pages of this book with plenty of characters for you to judge and suspect.
I’m glad the DI etc made some light banter within the gruesomeness of it all as my stomach did churn once or twice.
It’s a really good book if you want to get spooked, and written by a really good author.
I wouldn’t go near this house if you paid me.
Deception, secrets, lies it’s all here within the pages of this book with plenty of characters for you to judge and suspect.
I’m glad the DI etc made some light banter within the gruesomeness of it all as my stomach did churn once or twice.
It’s a really good book if you want to get spooked, and written by a really good author.
October 3, 2017
Maura Lyle is seconded to a nursing position at Essen Grange to care for elderly resident Gordon Henderson. Maura has recently suffered a bout of depression and this is her first job since recovering from her illness. From the very beginning she questions her decision, the home is quite derelict and creepy and strange occurrences begin immediately, it seems there is more to this house than meets the eye. Throw in some strange characters and you have a slow building mystery that gets better and better the more the story moves forward which then reaches a satisfying conclusion. Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for the chance to read this wonderful book in exchange for an honest review.
December 27, 2017
As soon as Maura turns up at Essen Grange, I could feel myself mentally shouting at her to turn back around as I knew nothing good was going to come out of working there.
Essen Grange has to be the perfect setting for a story. A big house that is steeped with lies and mystery. It's one that I could easily visualise in my head and whilst it made for great reading, it certainly wasn't a place I would ever want to stay the night! Like Maura though, I was interested in the people that owned it as well as worked there.
There was so much to grab my attention in this book. Maura, herself, as she was obviously running away from something as well as the secrets that the house held. There was no way I was going anywhere until I had gotten to the bottom of it.
Poole was a really interesting character. He is a detective who seems to have a bit of a history with Maura as well as is investigating the going on's at the big house. The more I got to know him the more I really liked him. I would love to see more of him in the future as he is just too good a character to keep to one book.
The Forgotten Room is a dark and eerie read where you are just waiting for something bad to happen. Every page turned, I knew I was getting closer to the horrible secrets the house was hiding and it went above and beyond what expectations I had of just what it was hiding. Perfect for readers who love a good psychological thriller.
Essen Grange has to be the perfect setting for a story. A big house that is steeped with lies and mystery. It's one that I could easily visualise in my head and whilst it made for great reading, it certainly wasn't a place I would ever want to stay the night! Like Maura though, I was interested in the people that owned it as well as worked there.
There was so much to grab my attention in this book. Maura, herself, as she was obviously running away from something as well as the secrets that the house held. There was no way I was going anywhere until I had gotten to the bottom of it.
Poole was a really interesting character. He is a detective who seems to have a bit of a history with Maura as well as is investigating the going on's at the big house. The more I got to know him the more I really liked him. I would love to see more of him in the future as he is just too good a character to keep to one book.
The Forgotten Room is a dark and eerie read where you are just waiting for something bad to happen. Every page turned, I knew I was getting closer to the horrible secrets the house was hiding and it went above and beyond what expectations I had of just what it was hiding. Perfect for readers who love a good psychological thriller.
October 13, 2017
What a messy tangled web of lies and deception that was! A creepy read where nobody is really who they appear to be and so many bad and sometimes creepy things continue to happen. Would not get me anywhere near that house! Thank you to Netgalley and HQ Digital for a copy of this book to read and review
November 15, 2017
I must admit that upon seeing this creepy cover, I just knew I had to choose this book to read. Creepy covers/mystery thrillers are my jam so I was more than happy to read and review this despite having read Ann Troup’s work before. As you can tell from the synopsis, we follow the story of Maura, a nurse dealing with depression after the death of her husband and betrayal of her sister but determined to carry on with life, she takes on the nursing job at the mysterious Essen Grange house despite knowing none of the details. What follows is a series of misfortune, horror and truth.
My biggest love from this book was definitely the atmospheric tension that Ann Troup created and kept throughout the entire novel. The beginning almost felt like you were reading a book about the supernatural or a haunted house and in many ways it is. The book is full of twists and turns… and a lot of dead bodies and it is our job as the reader to work out how all of these people are connected and who the actual killer is.
Another highlight was that there was a dog!! His name is Buster and he likes biscuits. Ok, this isn’t important to some people but I thought I’d add that. Feel free to message me to see if he lives or dies because if you’re like me, this will decide if you read the novel or not. Maura was a very realistic character, if not sometimes very un-nurse like in the way she treated Gordon at the start. She has quite a cold exterior and I must admit, there were times when I found her childish (the time she stuck her tongue out at the ‘house’ when she fixed a fuse) so I couldn’t connect and love her completely.
Overall, this book definitely does what it says on the tin when it comes to being a mystery thriller. It’s very mysterious (even when you think you have everything solved) and it’s very thrilling and you never know which turn the story is going to take. There’s a vast array of characters (most dead) but we delve into their backstories as the main plot evolves. With the amount of crimes that are committed, the book could have turned silly but it manages to stay realistic all whilst keeping that edge of mystery by not revealing the ‘killer’ to us until the last minute. I’d definitely recommend this book if you are a fan of the spooky house trope, a good mystery thriller and an overall atmospheric, edge-of-your-seat novel.
My biggest love from this book was definitely the atmospheric tension that Ann Troup created and kept throughout the entire novel. The beginning almost felt like you were reading a book about the supernatural or a haunted house and in many ways it is. The book is full of twists and turns… and a lot of dead bodies and it is our job as the reader to work out how all of these people are connected and who the actual killer is.
Another highlight was that there was a dog!! His name is Buster and he likes biscuits. Ok, this isn’t important to some people but I thought I’d add that. Feel free to message me to see if he lives or dies because if you’re like me, this will decide if you read the novel or not. Maura was a very realistic character, if not sometimes very un-nurse like in the way she treated Gordon at the start. She has quite a cold exterior and I must admit, there were times when I found her childish (the time she stuck her tongue out at the ‘house’ when she fixed a fuse) so I couldn’t connect and love her completely.
Overall, this book definitely does what it says on the tin when it comes to being a mystery thriller. It’s very mysterious (even when you think you have everything solved) and it’s very thrilling and you never know which turn the story is going to take. There’s a vast array of characters (most dead) but we delve into their backstories as the main plot evolves. With the amount of crimes that are committed, the book could have turned silly but it manages to stay realistic all whilst keeping that edge of mystery by not revealing the ‘killer’ to us until the last minute. I’d definitely recommend this book if you are a fan of the spooky house trope, a good mystery thriller and an overall atmospheric, edge-of-your-seat novel.
April 17, 2018
Following a tumultuous and tragic time in her life, Maura Lyle takes on a private nursing job at Essen Grange, an old and ugly house that is hiding a multitude of secrets.
This is a dark book. It twists and turns and becomes a perfectly plotted web for all of the characters. The ending was tied up in the ideal way and was absolutely bone chilling. What a clever novel and how well done.
This is a dark book. It twists and turns and becomes a perfectly plotted web for all of the characters. The ending was tied up in the ideal way and was absolutely bone chilling. What a clever novel and how well done.
October 21, 2017
When you read the final words of the last chapter of the book and the words that come out of your mouth are OMG and WOW, you know you've just read a absolutely brilliant book, which is what happened to me with this book.
The story plot was so cleverly and intricately woven like a maze, taking you down lots of different routes which you thought would reveal the answer but in fact turned out to be yet another deadend.
There was a lot of characters to keep track of, figuring out what their part was within the story, whether they were a victim or a guilty of something. It was all very gripping and I could not turn the pages fast enough.
I was truly captivated and enthralled with this book and throughout reading it, I kept trying to piece everything together in my head, and figure it all out, and wondering how it would all end. Suffice to say I couldn't have been more wrong if I tried. Absolutely amazing and a brilliant ending.
The story plot was so cleverly and intricately woven like a maze, taking you down lots of different routes which you thought would reveal the answer but in fact turned out to be yet another deadend.
There was a lot of characters to keep track of, figuring out what their part was within the story, whether they were a victim or a guilty of something. It was all very gripping and I could not turn the pages fast enough.
I was truly captivated and enthralled with this book and throughout reading it, I kept trying to piece everything together in my head, and figure it all out, and wondering how it would all end. Suffice to say I couldn't have been more wrong if I tried. Absolutely amazing and a brilliant ending.
November 1, 2017
After a life of struggle, Maura finds a nursing job at Essen Grange that seems like the perfect answer to her problems. But as with all horror stories, there are secrets and mysteries that will unearth a darkness Maura doesn’t expect. Maybe it isn’t so perfect after all…
As a thriller fan, I enjoyed the steady pacing, the foreboding mysteries, and the curious characters. It’s got all the ingredients I look for in a captivating book. I enjoyed the first-person accounts, giving deep insight into the psyches of various characters, and I was wrapped up in the fluid writing style that swept me into the plot.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read that kept me on my toes and made me wonder if I really should be reading it late at night…a promising mark of a good horror book. ;)
As a thriller fan, I enjoyed the steady pacing, the foreboding mysteries, and the curious characters. It’s got all the ingredients I look for in a captivating book. I enjoyed the first-person accounts, giving deep insight into the psyches of various characters, and I was wrapped up in the fluid writing style that swept me into the plot.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read that kept me on my toes and made me wonder if I really should be reading it late at night…a promising mark of a good horror book. ;)
October 27, 2017
This was an amazingly intricate book with lots of different characters to keep track of and it kept me on the edge of my seat for the entire read.
Maura is a nurse and she takes on a private nursing job, looking after Gordon Henderson. She finds herself in a creepy house, working with Cheryl who is the cleaner/housekeeper, a woman who keeps many secrets. Cheryl isn't the only one, however. There are plenty more who are hanging onto secrets and some of those secrets turn out to be deadly.
I don't know how the author thinks of all the different scenarios but I do know that this is an expertly written book, with excellent characterisations from everyone in it. As well as the people associated with Essen Grange, I also liked the characters of the various police officers and I am quietly hoping that there is a sequel to this book.
A well-deserved 5 stars for this book, stunning!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Thank you THE Book Club.
Maura is a nurse and she takes on a private nursing job, looking after Gordon Henderson. She finds herself in a creepy house, working with Cheryl who is the cleaner/housekeeper, a woman who keeps many secrets. Cheryl isn't the only one, however. There are plenty more who are hanging onto secrets and some of those secrets turn out to be deadly.
I don't know how the author thinks of all the different scenarios but I do know that this is an expertly written book, with excellent characterisations from everyone in it. As well as the people associated with Essen Grange, I also liked the characters of the various police officers and I am quietly hoping that there is a sequel to this book.
A well-deserved 5 stars for this book, stunning!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Thank you THE Book Club.
January 29, 2018
Too slow & wayyyyyy too friggin convoluted.
October 14, 2017
With thanks to Netgalley and HQ Digital for this ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.
Nurse Maura Lyle had been on sick leave with depression since the death of her ex-husband Richard. When Maura is offered a job as a private nurse on a personal recommendation she jumps at the chance to leave home for a while.
The job is to look after the elderly and infirm Gordon Henderson in his home Essen Grange. Gordon's cousin and carer Estelle Hall was in hospital after falling down stairs. Maura knew she had made a mistake when she first set eyes on the foreboding Essen Grange.
Mr Henderson was a nasty old man. He deliberately wet himself and fell from his chair to test Mauras patience. When she tried to pick him up he bit her cheek and scratched her. Cheryl is the cleaner at the grange, she is a strange quick tempered woman who warns her not to roam around the house.
On her first night alone in the house the lights trip and a window smashes. Days later a body is dug up by builders who are building a housing estate on the edge of Essen Grange. Policeman DS Mike Poole and colleague D.C. Gallan try to interview Mr Henderson but he refuses to answer their questions. Then Mr Henderson is found dead, suffocated with his own scarf. With further bodies piling up associated to Essen Grange, Poole and Hallam try to find out the truth.
This was a clever plot with twists and turns a plenty. I liked D.C. Gallant and DI James who bought humour to the story. My only gripe was it was difficult to remember all the extended family members and their relationship to Gordon Henderson.
This was my first book written by Ann Troup but I will definitely read more books by her in the future.
Nurse Maura Lyle had been on sick leave with depression since the death of her ex-husband Richard. When Maura is offered a job as a private nurse on a personal recommendation she jumps at the chance to leave home for a while.
The job is to look after the elderly and infirm Gordon Henderson in his home Essen Grange. Gordon's cousin and carer Estelle Hall was in hospital after falling down stairs. Maura knew she had made a mistake when she first set eyes on the foreboding Essen Grange.
Mr Henderson was a nasty old man. He deliberately wet himself and fell from his chair to test Mauras patience. When she tried to pick him up he bit her cheek and scratched her. Cheryl is the cleaner at the grange, she is a strange quick tempered woman who warns her not to roam around the house.
On her first night alone in the house the lights trip and a window smashes. Days later a body is dug up by builders who are building a housing estate on the edge of Essen Grange. Policeman DS Mike Poole and colleague D.C. Gallan try to interview Mr Henderson but he refuses to answer their questions. Then Mr Henderson is found dead, suffocated with his own scarf. With further bodies piling up associated to Essen Grange, Poole and Hallam try to find out the truth.
This was a clever plot with twists and turns a plenty. I liked D.C. Gallant and DI James who bought humour to the story. My only gripe was it was difficult to remember all the extended family members and their relationship to Gordon Henderson.
This was my first book written by Ann Troup but I will definitely read more books by her in the future.
October 30, 2017
I did wonder if I would really enjoy The Forgotten Room, the synopsis makes it sounds ever so creepy and I'm not always one for ghost stories. But every now and then I like to take myself out of my comfort zone and try something a but different. It's not as creepy as you might think at first and it's definitely a page turner - I could hardly put it down!
I particularly liked how some of the characters were written - none of them was particularly likeable, but sometimes it's nice to read a book like that. I did think that, perhaps, there were a few too many characters and I did struggle to get them all linked together in my mind. I also felt that some of the characters had been 'crowbarred' in to the story line. I think it may have been an even better book if it had been a little more simple.
I particularly liked how some of the characters were written - none of them was particularly likeable, but sometimes it's nice to read a book like that. I did think that, perhaps, there were a few too many characters and I did struggle to get them all linked together in my mind. I also felt that some of the characters had been 'crowbarred' in to the story line. I think it may have been an even better book if it had been a little more simple.
October 26, 2017
A chiller of a story set in a house of horrors. A dark story following the secrets that have gone on in a house that could have come straight from the set of a Stephen King film. It started off well but it might just have been me but I started to get a bit confused with the characters - possibly the number of them. Quite gruesome in places. Liked the narrative from the killer at the end of each chapter. This is my first book by this author and I will certainly be reading more. Thank you to the author and to TBC for the chance to read this title.
November 2, 2017
Reading this at Halloween was the perfect time for me as it was quite a chilling story, full of intrigue, secrets from the past and set in the creepiest location to add to the compelling journey that the author takes us on!
I have loved the previous books from Ann Troup, so was super excited to start on this one and it hasn't disappointed in any way! I found it quite darker than her previous books but once more she sets the scene so well that you really feel you are amongst it all and adds to the chills up your spine as you read!
We follow Maura as she goes to work as a nurse at Essen Grange - and it is as creepy as it sounds! It is the home of Gordon Henderson who is suffering badly with dementia and is kept locked in his room and dosed up to the eyeballs with a variety of drugs for a lot of the time, she finds it the perfect place to try and put her past behind her - sometimes that isn't always as easy as it sounds.
A cast of twisted characters are then introduced to the reader throughout and when the nearby building site is brought to a halt with the discovery of some bones, the plot starts to thicken and you wonder what part the past of Essen Grange and all who have lived there play in the grisly finds. And as the body count starts to increase - with some rather graphic and shocking outcomes - rumours from the past become a little more than hearsay! The tangled web of links is often difficult to predict which just adds to the intrigue!
it is difficult to say more without revealing any spoilers, other than to say it kept me hooked throughout and unable to put the book down at times as there was always another shock round the corner to play out!
Highly recommended for those who love their books full of sinister goings on!!!
I have loved the previous books from Ann Troup, so was super excited to start on this one and it hasn't disappointed in any way! I found it quite darker than her previous books but once more she sets the scene so well that you really feel you are amongst it all and adds to the chills up your spine as you read!
We follow Maura as she goes to work as a nurse at Essen Grange - and it is as creepy as it sounds! It is the home of Gordon Henderson who is suffering badly with dementia and is kept locked in his room and dosed up to the eyeballs with a variety of drugs for a lot of the time, she finds it the perfect place to try and put her past behind her - sometimes that isn't always as easy as it sounds.
A cast of twisted characters are then introduced to the reader throughout and when the nearby building site is brought to a halt with the discovery of some bones, the plot starts to thicken and you wonder what part the past of Essen Grange and all who have lived there play in the grisly finds. And as the body count starts to increase - with some rather graphic and shocking outcomes - rumours from the past become a little more than hearsay! The tangled web of links is often difficult to predict which just adds to the intrigue!
it is difficult to say more without revealing any spoilers, other than to say it kept me hooked throughout and unable to put the book down at times as there was always another shock round the corner to play out!
Highly recommended for those who love their books full of sinister goings on!!!
October 29, 2017
I have thoroughly enjoyed books by Ann Troup before so I was keen to get hold of The Forgotten Room .. just take a look at that eerie cover. That sums up the story magnificently, this is a dark, creepy, mysterious book, fabulous for the looming darker evenings and Halloween approaching!
Nurse Maura has had her fair share of problems and in order to get away from her past she accepts a job caring for an elderly gent. Gordon Henderson has a bit of a reputation as a difficult patient but Maura takes it all in her stride and her mental health training comes in while dealing with him.
The house is a rather sinister abode, Maura feels uneasy especially when she meets the cantankerous housekeeper Cheryl with her warnings about ‘keeping to certain areas’. Things start to go bump in the night, bricks through windows, blown light bulbs all accentuating Maura’s fear. She gains a little comfort from the dog that belongs to Bob the handyman.
Soon the mysteries begin to emerge, bodies are discovered, people are missing and Maura is tested to the limit.
This is a delightfully spooky book which I flew through, as you hit the half way point there suddenly seem to be a lot of characters so it’s quite a challenge remembering all the names and who is connected to whom. But it eventually unfolds and the ending wasn’t what I was expecting!
An entertaining book for fans of creepy, mind-boggling gore .. thanks to the author, publisher and Neverland Book Tours for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Nurse Maura has had her fair share of problems and in order to get away from her past she accepts a job caring for an elderly gent. Gordon Henderson has a bit of a reputation as a difficult patient but Maura takes it all in her stride and her mental health training comes in while dealing with him.
The house is a rather sinister abode, Maura feels uneasy especially when she meets the cantankerous housekeeper Cheryl with her warnings about ‘keeping to certain areas’. Things start to go bump in the night, bricks through windows, blown light bulbs all accentuating Maura’s fear. She gains a little comfort from the dog that belongs to Bob the handyman.
Soon the mysteries begin to emerge, bodies are discovered, people are missing and Maura is tested to the limit.
This is a delightfully spooky book which I flew through, as you hit the half way point there suddenly seem to be a lot of characters so it’s quite a challenge remembering all the names and who is connected to whom. But it eventually unfolds and the ending wasn’t what I was expecting!
An entertaining book for fans of creepy, mind-boggling gore .. thanks to the author, publisher and Neverland Book Tours for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
October 23, 2017
Can the past really be forgotten? Not is Ann Troup's new book "The Forgotten Room". This is a perfect book with a very intriguing and twisted ending when all dots are being connected at the end and just makes you WOW.
An old quote says - keep your friends close and your enemies closers. But how do you know who is really a friend and who is an enemy? And how far a person can go to get a revenge? Well, welcome to The Essen Grange, the house of horror. Buckle up your seatbelts, you're in for a wild ride.
Gordon Henderson is a bitter man who has inherited the Grange after a death of his older brother. He marries Jane because it is socially profitable for him. Jane's sister Estelle moves into the house as well. However life doesn't always go according to the plan, and it seems like the universe is against Gordon Henderson. His first child is born with a down syndrome. He does not acknowledge his second child. Jane leaves the Grange and never returns. Gordon's brother's wife and son show up, threatening to take his inheritance.
Fast forward to present. Bones are found on Grange's estate. Maura, a nurse, who has been going thru a hard time after the death of her ex-boyfriend, is being offered a job - to look after Dr. Moss's private patient - Gordon Henderson. Later, she discovers that Dr. Moss has specifically requested Maura to look after Gordon. Is this a coincidence or well thought thru plan? Mr. Henderson's caretaker Estelle is missing. Dr. Moss is nowhere to be found. Gordon's bank account is empty and the man is found dead. After Henderson's death, Maura is looking for a new job. She is given a night shift at a hospital, where she comes upon a patient, Jane Henderson - who has been missing for decades. Detective Poole is on a mission to resolve a case, and he discovers that all his findings always lead him back to an old mansion. Will the detective catch the person on time before they succeed with their revenge?
A perfect book to read for a Halloween season.
An old quote says - keep your friends close and your enemies closers. But how do you know who is really a friend and who is an enemy? And how far a person can go to get a revenge? Well, welcome to The Essen Grange, the house of horror. Buckle up your seatbelts, you're in for a wild ride.
Gordon Henderson is a bitter man who has inherited the Grange after a death of his older brother. He marries Jane because it is socially profitable for him. Jane's sister Estelle moves into the house as well. However life doesn't always go according to the plan, and it seems like the universe is against Gordon Henderson. His first child is born with a down syndrome. He does not acknowledge his second child. Jane leaves the Grange and never returns. Gordon's brother's wife and son show up, threatening to take his inheritance.
Fast forward to present. Bones are found on Grange's estate. Maura, a nurse, who has been going thru a hard time after the death of her ex-boyfriend, is being offered a job - to look after Dr. Moss's private patient - Gordon Henderson. Later, she discovers that Dr. Moss has specifically requested Maura to look after Gordon. Is this a coincidence or well thought thru plan? Mr. Henderson's caretaker Estelle is missing. Dr. Moss is nowhere to be found. Gordon's bank account is empty and the man is found dead. After Henderson's death, Maura is looking for a new job. She is given a night shift at a hospital, where she comes upon a patient, Jane Henderson - who has been missing for decades. Detective Poole is on a mission to resolve a case, and he discovers that all his findings always lead him back to an old mansion. Will the detective catch the person on time before they succeed with their revenge?
A perfect book to read for a Halloween season.
February 2, 2018
I can’t finish this. It had promise but was too all over the place for me, and the writing is very awkward!
I finished it. Two stars
I finished it. Two stars
October 2, 2017
Welcome to the Henderson House of Horrors
The Essen Grange is an old and ominous presence looming within a new suburban development. Ivy blocks the light of day from illuminating the festering secrets that lie within.
Maura is struggling to get her life together after the death of her ex-husband when she is offered a position as the carer for Gordon Henderson at the Grange. Gordon is a curmudgeonly old man, but not incapable of caring for himself. So why was Maura requested by name to be there?
The discovery of remains on the developing land sets off an investigation that raises more questions than answers. As DC Poole and his team hunt for clues, it seems each corner finds another person dead until there’s nearly no one left to question. Magpie feathers punctuate each death — as the old rhyme goes: seven for a secret never to be told.
When the truth is revealed, the creepy old house appears to have been hiding much more than decades-old secrets. What is forgotten cannot be healed. And someone has set out to make sure they all remember... and pay.
The tangled web of family ties gets a bit sticky at times leaving the reader unable to speculate, only to go along for the ride. But what a ride it is. With quick pacing that stays ‘in media res’, characters that combine the flavors of Detective Mystery with Familial Drama, and a creepy house that seems straight out of a Gaiman story, this atmospheric modern gothic will have you reaching for your favorite Charlotte Brontë classic when all is said and done.
Thank you to NetGalley, publisher HQ Digital, and author Ann Troup for the ARC of this book.
For a light discussion and reactionary post on this book, read here: https://greykatreviews.wordpress.com/...
Read more of my reviews on my blog: https://greykatreviews.wordpress.com
The Essen Grange is an old and ominous presence looming within a new suburban development. Ivy blocks the light of day from illuminating the festering secrets that lie within.
Maura is struggling to get her life together after the death of her ex-husband when she is offered a position as the carer for Gordon Henderson at the Grange. Gordon is a curmudgeonly old man, but not incapable of caring for himself. So why was Maura requested by name to be there?
The discovery of remains on the developing land sets off an investigation that raises more questions than answers. As DC Poole and his team hunt for clues, it seems each corner finds another person dead until there’s nearly no one left to question. Magpie feathers punctuate each death — as the old rhyme goes: seven for a secret never to be told.
When the truth is revealed, the creepy old house appears to have been hiding much more than decades-old secrets. What is forgotten cannot be healed. And someone has set out to make sure they all remember... and pay.
The tangled web of family ties gets a bit sticky at times leaving the reader unable to speculate, only to go along for the ride. But what a ride it is. With quick pacing that stays ‘in media res’, characters that combine the flavors of Detective Mystery with Familial Drama, and a creepy house that seems straight out of a Gaiman story, this atmospheric modern gothic will have you reaching for your favorite Charlotte Brontë classic when all is said and done.
Thank you to NetGalley, publisher HQ Digital, and author Ann Troup for the ARC of this book.
For a light discussion and reactionary post on this book, read here: https://greykatreviews.wordpress.com/...
Read more of my reviews on my blog: https://greykatreviews.wordpress.com
October 25, 2017
From the opening few sentences of this book, I knew I was in for a good read. It starts by setting the scene at Essen Grange, a house that time has forgotten. It is a very creepy place with many rooms that have not been used in a long time.
Maura Lyle has just accepted a job to work at Essen Grange caring for Gordon Henderson, the elderly resident. Also, working with her is Cheryl the cleaner and Bob the odd job man. From the first night that Maura spends there, she finds it very spooky and strange goings on keep happening. Maura soon begins to wonder what she is doing there and why she accepted that job, but after experiencing a lot of turmoil in her personal life, she is reluctant to go back to her empty home.
This is a chilling and dark book, with a lot of mystery that keeps you reading. I found that I was hooked right from the first page and the detailed descriptions of the house and its surroundings really make you feel like you are there too. The characters are all very different and there are many issues running through this book which give it extra dimension. A great book to read for Autumn!
Maura Lyle has just accepted a job to work at Essen Grange caring for Gordon Henderson, the elderly resident. Also, working with her is Cheryl the cleaner and Bob the odd job man. From the first night that Maura spends there, she finds it very spooky and strange goings on keep happening. Maura soon begins to wonder what she is doing there and why she accepted that job, but after experiencing a lot of turmoil in her personal life, she is reluctant to go back to her empty home.
This is a chilling and dark book, with a lot of mystery that keeps you reading. I found that I was hooked right from the first page and the detailed descriptions of the house and its surroundings really make you feel like you are there too. The characters are all very different and there are many issues running through this book which give it extra dimension. A great book to read for Autumn!
November 1, 2017
I don't really like to give only a so-so review and I can see I'm in the minority here, but this wasn't really a book that grabbed me at all. I found it very hard to get into, as I personally found the first half quite slow. But that could have been just me, as I usually go for the fast-paced, non-stop-action thrillers, so that is sort of what I'm expecting when I pick up a book. But if you don't mind a slower, more reflexive pace, you would probably enjoy this book. It took me a long time to warm up to any of the characters including the heroine, although I did quite like her from the beginning and I could identify with and sympathize with her problems. The book is filled with nasty characters - well I found them all nasty anyway - but then again since all of them are murder suspects I suppose they were supposed to be nasty. I only liked the heroine and the police detective Mike Poole. But once again, I imagine that is what the author intended. The second part of the book was faster paced hence I enjoyed it more. But then, I got so so so confused with all the characters, and all the characters who weren't who everyone thought they were and who were really other characters. I find it hard in general to get along with books that have a lot of characters, so it isn't just this book but just in general, I have a hard time with books with a huge cast of characters. If you don't mind taking the time to write all the characters down so you don't forget them or get them mixed up though, you would probably not have any problems. Having said that, I did find the plotline really clever, hard to guess, intricate and full of twists and turns and surprises. Some of the sections and the stories of some of the characters were really moving and I did end up hating the villains with a passion.
October 24, 2017
Well, I found this quite the page turner! It begins when a community nurse is sent to a creepy old house to look after an elderly man suffering from dementia. As with most old houses, it creaks and groans and has plenty of spooky corners. And as you would expect, the bodies and the odd skeleton keep piling up! It’s a house of secrets where no-one is who they seem, even the nurse.
Although the story is a dark and quite sinister one, it is written with a sense of humour. The similes abound! It’s very atmospheric and has a gothic feel. I got a little confused about who was related to whom and how they figured in the tale but I found the mystery very intriguing. I was eager to turn the pages..... just one more chapter before I go to sleep scenario.
A compelling and suspenseful read with a great sense of foreboding and some horror thrown in. Just right for the time of year!
Reviewed for TBC on Facebook.
Although the story is a dark and quite sinister one, it is written with a sense of humour. The similes abound! It’s very atmospheric and has a gothic feel. I got a little confused about who was related to whom and how they figured in the tale but I found the mystery very intriguing. I was eager to turn the pages..... just one more chapter before I go to sleep scenario.
A compelling and suspenseful read with a great sense of foreboding and some horror thrown in. Just right for the time of year!
Reviewed for TBC on Facebook.
October 25, 2017
When Maura (a nurse) is personally requested for an in home care job looking after a frail old man she thinks this could be her second chance. However from the moment she arrives she has a gut feeling that something is wrong as she approaches the spooky old house.
Extremely creepy and mysterious everytime I thought I had it all figured out something else came up which made me change my mind and I couldn’t ever have imagined the end of the book. I love how the point of view changes from Maura’s to the police as they are trying to solve the murders which keep piling up.
Would recommend this book to anyone who loves spooky mysterious thrillers which puts your heart rate through the roof and leaves you speechless at the end.
I cannot wait to read another by this author now.
Extremely creepy and mysterious everytime I thought I had it all figured out something else came up which made me change my mind and I couldn’t ever have imagined the end of the book. I love how the point of view changes from Maura’s to the police as they are trying to solve the murders which keep piling up.
Would recommend this book to anyone who loves spooky mysterious thrillers which puts your heart rate through the roof and leaves you speechless at the end.
I cannot wait to read another by this author now.
October 24, 2017
A chilling contemporary thriller which kept me guessing. The protagonist, nurse Maura Lyle, is mysteriously employed to care for curmudgeonly Gordon Henderson in Essen Hall. Maura soon begins to regret her decision as events take a sinister turn and she becomes fearful for herself and those around her.
The book was certainly a page-turner, but confusing at times trying to keep track of who was dead, who was alive, and who was actually somebody else!
The book was certainly a page-turner, but confusing at times trying to keep track of who was dead, who was alive, and who was actually somebody else!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2018
This is a brilliant rollercoaster of a thriller. I found it needed to be read thoroughly as there are many twists and turns. Maura is offered a job as a live in nurse to look after a Gordon Henderson. He requires 24 hour care and Maura is tempted by the large cheque she receives in advance. The action begins as soon as she sets foot in Gordon's home with bodies turning up daily! Read on!
October 11, 2017
3.5 stars. I thoroughly enjoyed this book which had me hooked from the first page. I have read another book by this author and this one was just as enjoyable. Good gripping read that I couldn't put down. It was full of twists and turns that I didn't see coming.
November 1, 2018
BEWARE of SPOILER
The book was told in multiple point of view with Maura Lyle and Mike Poole as the main one. There were also multiple characters but, do not fear as you won't get lost because every character have it purposes and wouldn't appear or disappear just like nothing, except for Maura sisters because their main reason was to drive her away from the safety of her house and into the mystery of Essen Grange.
Maura lost her husband and one of the reason had something to do with her sister who kept pleading for forgiveness while the other sister wanted Maura to suck it up and forgive and forget. Not much of a sister and Maura knew it. She was almost at the end of her sanity when a job offer landed on her lap and she took it without so much of a question. But, when she arrived at Essen Grange, she knew she made a huge mistake. Going back wasn't an option either as it meant more harassment from her sisters. And she already took advance payment.
When skeleton was discovered near Essen Grange and Maura was the suspect, she knew her bad luck will never leave her alone, not in this lifetime anyway.
Maura's point of view was a bit hard to reach in. I couldn't connect with her. She didn't know where to lay her priority right. Thank God though Ann Troup decided not to follow the la la land where the MC couldn't be rely on because either they were drunk or insane. Maura for once wasn't, even though at times I do suspected that she may have something to do with the murder. Which was wicked in my opinion when I suspected every characters in this book to be the killer.
Towards the end, the twist was revealed and when I thought that was it, another twist was thrown on my lap. Essen Grange certainly hold too many secrets with it winding corridors and hidden room. Yes, there was a room which I never bother to think of while reading it. In fact, I forgotten that the title was The Forgotten Room.
Of course the book come with flaws. But, I overlook it because I was excited with Poole's point of view and the comic relief he brought with his staff. And this is a mystery/thriller that I wish the romance will bloom.
The book was told in multiple point of view with Maura Lyle and Mike Poole as the main one. There were also multiple characters but, do not fear as you won't get lost because every character have it purposes and wouldn't appear or disappear just like nothing, except for Maura sisters because their main reason was to drive her away from the safety of her house and into the mystery of Essen Grange.
Maura lost her husband and one of the reason had something to do with her sister who kept pleading for forgiveness while the other sister wanted Maura to suck it up and forgive and forget. Not much of a sister and Maura knew it. She was almost at the end of her sanity when a job offer landed on her lap and she took it without so much of a question. But, when she arrived at Essen Grange, she knew she made a huge mistake. Going back wasn't an option either as it meant more harassment from her sisters. And she already took advance payment.
When skeleton was discovered near Essen Grange and Maura was the suspect, she knew her bad luck will never leave her alone, not in this lifetime anyway.
Maura's point of view was a bit hard to reach in. I couldn't connect with her. She didn't know where to lay her priority right. Thank God though Ann Troup decided not to follow the la la land where the MC couldn't be rely on because either they were drunk or insane. Maura for once wasn't, even though at times I do suspected that she may have something to do with the murder. Which was wicked in my opinion when I suspected every characters in this book to be the killer.
Towards the end, the twist was revealed and when I thought that was it, another twist was thrown on my lap. Essen Grange certainly hold too many secrets with it winding corridors and hidden room. Yes, there was a room which I never bother to think of while reading it. In fact, I forgotten that the title was The Forgotten Room.
Of course the book come with flaws. But, I overlook it because I was excited with Poole's point of view and the comic relief he brought with his staff. And this is a mystery/thriller that I wish the romance will bloom.
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