What do you think?
Rate this book
Stirrings in the Black House
Fear is a place. When struggling concert pianist Emil inherits a house from his late uncle, he thinks all of his problems are solved. Absconding to the mysterious Weatherby House in the suburbs of Portland where his famous uncle composed many classical masterpieces, Emil finds the place completely empty, save for one His uncle's grand piano. But Weatherby House is not the ideal getaway it appears at first glance. It has a dark past and is shunned by the locals. As the days pass, strange things occur on the property, leaving Emil to wonder if he isn't losing his mind. Unplaceable footsteps resound in the upstairs; dark figures peer into the windows at night despite the empty acreage that surrounds the old house, and that blasted piano can't seem to keep quiet, loosing music at turns beautiful and terrifying even as no one sits before it. In time, Emil discovers that there's something else living in Weatherby House. And it refuses to let him leave.
176 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2017
127 people are currently reading
392 people want to read
About the author
Ambrose Ibsen
61 books667 followersOnce upon a time, a young Ambrose Ibsen discovered a collection of ghost stories on his father's bookshelf. He was never the same again.
Apart from horror fiction, he enjoys good coffee, brewed strong.
Apart from horror fiction, he enjoys good coffee, brewed strong.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
May 13, 2020
Stirrings in the Black House by Ambrose Ibsen is a pretty good scary story. Emil inherits a house from an uncle that never really seemed to care for him. Shocked but in need of a place and down on his luck, he happy with this bit of luck. He moves in and soon finds out that this house has a history, a bad history. He also finds out why his uncle gave him the house. The book started out a little slow but soon it made up for it and ended with an exciting bang! Great ghost story! I requested an audio version and the review is voluntary.
December 20, 2021
Author Ambrose Ibsen has done it again by throwing the reader into a haunted house filled with some major hungry entities! These entities are not your typical ghosts as they are something much worse!
A backstory:
Emil inherits a house from his late uncle so he moves to Portland, Oregon leaving his family behind to go live in the house. There are sparse furnishings in the house including a very nice piano. Once he gets there, the house is pretty mild at first, but then he starts having nightmares and visions to the point where he cannot sleep. The longer he stays there, the house starts waking up and the entities start appearing.
The entities are not your normal "run of the mill" everyday variety as these evil beings want to not only rule the house they want to claim Emi's soul!
Thoughts:
The book starts out a little slow, but then it picks up pace the further I got into the story. The story just weaved itself around me as I delved further into the book. This author knows how to capture the essence of the haunting and will deliver it with a bang as the climax is reached of the haunting. This book I would consider another one of those insomnia fueled stories that will keep you up all night as you race from chapter to chapter! Giving this one four Evil Entity stars!
A backstory:
Emil inherits a house from his late uncle so he moves to Portland, Oregon leaving his family behind to go live in the house. There are sparse furnishings in the house including a very nice piano. Once he gets there, the house is pretty mild at first, but then he starts having nightmares and visions to the point where he cannot sleep. The longer he stays there, the house starts waking up and the entities start appearing.
The entities are not your normal "run of the mill" everyday variety as these evil beings want to not only rule the house they want to claim Emi's soul!
Thoughts:
The book starts out a little slow, but then it picks up pace the further I got into the story. The story just weaved itself around me as I delved further into the book. This author knows how to capture the essence of the haunting and will deliver it with a bang as the climax is reached of the haunting. This book I would consider another one of those insomnia fueled stories that will keep you up all night as you race from chapter to chapter! Giving this one four Evil Entity stars!
September 20, 2017
** I received this audiobook in exchange for a honest review**
The audio quality was great. The narrator, Joe Hempel did a good job. There was times I wished he had put more emotion in his reading but it didn't bother me so much that I quit listening. There was no problems that I found in the recording.
The story. THIS STORY HAS A CULT IN IT!! I LOVE stories with cults. hence my dancing skeleton. The story is great and suspenseful. THEN you find out what happened in the house. oh man! I would not stay there, my mother's couch would win that battle! I thought Emil was a pretty believable character. There is only one flaw with this story- honey, that's not exactly how reincarnation works. I'm sure the author knows this and was just twisting it to fit the story. Ok, I'll go along with it. The ending of the story is a nightmare that doesn't end. It does not let up. If your really squeamish, the ending may be too much for you. I really enjoyed this story and would read more by this author.
The audio quality was great. The narrator, Joe Hempel did a good job. There was times I wished he had put more emotion in his reading but it didn't bother me so much that I quit listening. There was no problems that I found in the recording.
The story. THIS STORY HAS A CULT IN IT!! I LOVE stories with cults. hence my dancing skeleton. The story is great and suspenseful. THEN you find out what happened in the house. oh man! I would not stay there, my mother's couch would win that battle! I thought Emil was a pretty believable character. There is only one flaw with this story- honey, that's not exactly how reincarnation works. I'm sure the author knows this and was just twisting it to fit the story. Ok, I'll go along with it. The ending of the story is a nightmare that doesn't end. It does not let up. If your really squeamish, the ending may be too much for you. I really enjoyed this story and would read more by this author.
January 5, 2018
Emil, was a struggling concert pianist. His career had taken a setback, because of his addiction to drugs. Emil's uncle Gustav, a world class pianist and composer, left his house to Emil. His uncle has seen Emil play once. He told him, that he had no career in music. Emil could not understand, why an uncle, that he only met once, would leave him his house. When Emil arrived at Weatherby House, there was no furniture. The only thing that was there, was a Steinway grand piano. Emil began to here footstep and see shadows lurking in the house. He even saw somebody, looking in the window. When Emil tries to sleep, he hears this haunting melody, that is coming from the Steinway. Emil thinks that the dark piece, sound like a funeral march. He is beginning to think, that he is losing his mind. Emil meet Kelly. She works at the local grocery store. Once Kelly finds out where Emil lives, she begins to fill him in on the dark history of the house. Kelly told him about the six murders and the cult, that use to live there. Kelly tells him, that there was a book publish about the murders. Emil goes on the internet, looking for a copy of the book, but he discovers it is out of print. He ventures to the local bookstore, looking for a copy of the book. He finds one and wants to purchase it. The owner of the bookstore, told him that he would not sell it to him. The owner told him, to take the book and leave. After reading 6 chapters of the book, Emil say, I don't want to know anymore. He picks up the book again, and reads more about the cult and there horrific rituals.
Ibsen, is a good writer, and a very good storyteller. I recommend this book.
Ibsen, is a good writer, and a very good storyteller. I recommend this book.
February 6, 2021
Note to self, do not read anything by Ambrose Ibsen at night! He can definitely write a book that has so much apprehension that it is not a good idea to read them at night. If you like being scared at night by all means, read at night. Just know when your head hits that pillow and your on the border between wakefulness and sleep you will hear a noise and sit bolt upright because your already scared from his books.
Stirrings in the black house is about our main character Emil who is trying to rebuild his life after a piano concert gone wrong. He hears that he has inherited his uncles house. This seems like a godsend but Emil has to wonder why it was left to him. After all he only saw his uncle a few times.
Regardless, he moves there. This is the solid reason that he stays when things start to become weird. A good ghost story always has to have a believable reason otherwise characters would just move. Emil was at times a cringeworthy character, especially when he hits on a girl at a supermarket. I loved how their friendship developed through the house and it's history and the mature growth Emil exhibits throughout some trials.
The writing is a steady pace, this book being not that long at all. This is how you know there will be more twists coming up, because you think - 'where can this go?' a few pages in. The thing with Ambrose Ibsen's writing is that you cannot always guess where it is going to go.
I give this four stars. It has a chill factor, he has realistic characters and I loved the unique and unsettling story behind the house.
Stirrings in the black house is about our main character Emil who is trying to rebuild his life after a piano concert gone wrong. He hears that he has inherited his uncles house. This seems like a godsend but Emil has to wonder why it was left to him. After all he only saw his uncle a few times.
Regardless, he moves there. This is the solid reason that he stays when things start to become weird. A good ghost story always has to have a believable reason otherwise characters would just move. Emil was at times a cringeworthy character, especially when he hits on a girl at a supermarket. I loved how their friendship developed through the house and it's history and the mature growth Emil exhibits throughout some trials.
The writing is a steady pace, this book being not that long at all. This is how you know there will be more twists coming up, because you think - 'where can this go?' a few pages in. The thing with Ambrose Ibsen's writing is that you cannot always guess where it is going to go.
I give this four stars. It has a chill factor, he has realistic characters and I loved the unique and unsettling story behind the house.
August 9, 2020
Summary:
When Emil inherits a house from his deceased uncle, he is excited for a new beginning. Planning on leaving behind his painkiller addiction that led to a fall in his pianist career, he eagerly moves in with his few belongings.
What he never expected to find there was a dark past, horrible nightmares and some shocking discoveries.
Something has been stirred by Emil's presence in the house and now it doesn't want to let him leave.
Personal opinion:
Another original and creepy haunted house story by Ambrose Ibsen.
It starts off by slow, easing you into the gruesome backstory of the house before the real haunting action beginnings. Also the reason his estranged uncle gave him the house to begin with ended up being quite the surprise.
The ending went out with a bang like most of Ambrose's haunting stories do. Would recommend as a good read for ghost and haunted house fans.
July 4, 2020
This book was really creepy! 😂
May 11, 2018
Love this book and author!
I read “The House of Long Shadows” by this author and loved it so much I then read this book! I was not disappointed! I didn’t see the ending coming, and once again this book also held my attention. I recommended this book to my reader friends just as soon as I finished reading it. I hope other readers will enjoy it as much as I did! I gave it five stars for its writing style, believable and memorable story line, and the fact that it held my attention from page one. I really dislike books that take a while to get into. I hope others enjoy this book (and author) as much as I do.
I read “The House of Long Shadows” by this author and loved it so much I then read this book! I was not disappointed! I didn’t see the ending coming, and once again this book also held my attention. I recommended this book to my reader friends just as soon as I finished reading it. I hope other readers will enjoy it as much as I did! I gave it five stars for its writing style, believable and memorable story line, and the fact that it held my attention from page one. I really dislike books that take a while to get into. I hope others enjoy this book (and author) as much as I do.
August 12, 2017
This is a creepy ghost come scary cult story. Concert pianist, Emil, is struggling to survive after tanking his career with a drug addiction. He sees a chance at revival when his estranged composer uncle dies leaving him a house and a Steinway piano, but all is not what it seems in a house with a very black history. This is a disturbing, sinister story that increases in spookiness as it progresses. The author slowly builds connections with the reader and the protagonists as the story goes along and the great narration in the audiobook helps you feel the fear and helplessness of the characters. This horror/supernatural thriller leads you on an interesting and spooky journey that is enhanced by the excellent narration.
April 10, 2019
Loved this book!
Chilling, haunting, spooky, suspenseful . . . I gobbled this book up. Ambrose is an amazing and talented writer and storyteller. His characters are so well-constructed, believable, rounded, likeable and always with a flare, an edge of realism that makes them so relatable. This story was creative and unique from the house with its dark cult past, to uncle Gustaav and the world of classical music. Definitely a must read. I look forward to book two of this tale.
Chilling, haunting, spooky, suspenseful . . . I gobbled this book up. Ambrose is an amazing and talented writer and storyteller. His characters are so well-constructed, believable, rounded, likeable and always with a flare, an edge of realism that makes them so relatable. This story was creative and unique from the house with its dark cult past, to uncle Gustaav and the world of classical music. Definitely a must read. I look forward to book two of this tale.
August 24, 2024
Quick ghost story read! The pacing of plot was a bit up and down. But overall a fun book for those who enjoy ghost stories. The ending was great! Although I find it odd the two people in last chapter didn’t connect the dots of the last name and house in their town. Won’t give more info on that.
January 20, 2018
I'd rather read ghost stories than monster-type horror, and this one is nice and creepy, even if you figure out what's going on before Emil does. The characters are very well-drawn, and you get attached to them very quickly. There is a little gore, for those who don't like such things, but it's not over-the-top. It's also fairly short--more of a novella--so you can easily finish it in one dark night.
May 16, 2019
The deepening of the sound; the barest blush of a funerary march. Slowly, it all came back to me.
Emil, a moderately successful pianist, has hit a rough patch. His career has derailed after an incident at a performance. He is struggling making ends meet, getting his life back on track, and living up to the musical talent of his Uncle Gustav. This uncle, recently deceased, has left Weatherby House and Steinway grand piano to Emil, who seizes the opportunity to rebuild his life and career. But it seems that the house has other designs for him.
Weatherby House is an interesting setting. It is neglected and separate from the small town of Newberg, Oregon that it sits near. The town is also an interesting location that contrasts wonderfully with the house. The town itself is quite isolated, especially from Emil's hometown across the country, however it is populated and seemingly peaceful. It has a small country town vibe, complete with inhabitants somewhat wary of newcomers. Through Emil's exploration of Newberg, we learn alongside him that Weatherby House has a reputation amongst the locals.
Emil is a relatable character. He is flawed, ambitions, uncertain, and very real. I found myself sympathising with him and wanting him to succeed in rebuilding his life and career. As such, I was heavily invested in his development and story.
I was less keen on Kelly, a college student in Newberg that Emil is quick to befriend. It is initally through her that we discover that Weatherby House has a violent history. My main issue with her is that she seemed somewhat inconsistent, and not completely necessary to the plot.
I'm not going to go into too much detail about how Emil learns in more detail about the history and legacy of his new home, because I don't want to spoil this for anyone, but I thought it was very unique and clever. It was an enjoyable experience to share with Emil (though I'm sure he'd disagree).
As a musically inclined person, I appreciated this aspect of the novel. Emil often describes musical pieces and his love of the piano and classical music which not only added depth to Emil's character, but also made the world around him more real.
All in all, I really enjoyed Stirrings in the Black House and would recommend it to fans of horror, ghosts, and another horror concept that I haven't mentioned here so that it isn't spoiled for you (it is an aspect that I have disliked in other books, but in this one, it worked really well).
Emil, a moderately successful pianist, has hit a rough patch. His career has derailed after an incident at a performance. He is struggling making ends meet, getting his life back on track, and living up to the musical talent of his Uncle Gustav. This uncle, recently deceased, has left Weatherby House and Steinway grand piano to Emil, who seizes the opportunity to rebuild his life and career. But it seems that the house has other designs for him.
Weatherby House is an interesting setting. It is neglected and separate from the small town of Newberg, Oregon that it sits near. The town is also an interesting location that contrasts wonderfully with the house. The town itself is quite isolated, especially from Emil's hometown across the country, however it is populated and seemingly peaceful. It has a small country town vibe, complete with inhabitants somewhat wary of newcomers. Through Emil's exploration of Newberg, we learn alongside him that Weatherby House has a reputation amongst the locals.
Emil is a relatable character. He is flawed, ambitions, uncertain, and very real. I found myself sympathising with him and wanting him to succeed in rebuilding his life and career. As such, I was heavily invested in his development and story.
I was less keen on Kelly, a college student in Newberg that Emil is quick to befriend. It is initally through her that we discover that Weatherby House has a violent history. My main issue with her is that she seemed somewhat inconsistent, and not completely necessary to the plot.
I'm not going to go into too much detail about how Emil learns in more detail about the history and legacy of his new home, because I don't want to spoil this for anyone, but I thought it was very unique and clever. It was an enjoyable experience to share with Emil (though I'm sure he'd disagree).
As a musically inclined person, I appreciated this aspect of the novel. Emil often describes musical pieces and his love of the piano and classical music which not only added depth to Emil's character, but also made the world around him more real.
All in all, I really enjoyed Stirrings in the Black House and would recommend it to fans of horror, ghosts, and another horror concept that I haven't mentioned here so that it isn't spoiled for you (it is an aspect that I have disliked in other books, but in this one, it worked really well).
August 28, 2017
Another great horror story by Ambrose Ibsen. This is my third book by this author. I definitely plan to check out more of his books! Like the others I've listened to so far, this book was very suspenseful throughout. Of course that is partly due to the great narration by Joe Hempel!
Ghosts, a haunted house, a group of reincarnated cultists, and a whole lot of creepy! Emil is a washed up pianist and recovering drug addict. After his Uncle Gustav passes away he inherits the Weatherby House. The old house is full of dark secrets and a beautiful old Steinway grand piano. Not long after moving into the house Emil learns of the house's dark past and realizes he may not be alone in the house.
Ghosts, a haunted house, a group of reincarnated cultists, and a whole lot of creepy! Emil is a washed up pianist and recovering drug addict. After his Uncle Gustav passes away he inherits the Weatherby House. The old house is full of dark secrets and a beautiful old Steinway grand piano. Not long after moving into the house Emil learns of the house's dark past and realizes he may not be alone in the house.
October 6, 2017
This book is mostly well-written; however, the author consistently uses the wrong punctuation around the word "however." Also, I've encountered a couple of dangling modifiers and the word "lay" when it should be "lie," an error I've been finding very frequently in general.
This book is very, very spooky!
This book is very, very spooky!
August 7, 2017
This review first appeared at Audiobook Reviewer:
https://audiobookreviewer.com/reviews...
Stirrings in the Black House was a fun haunted house story. When I say fun about a haunted house book, I mean thrilling, scary, nerve racking and had it been a movie there would have been several jump scenes. I enjoyed listening to it.
Emil is a washed up concert pianist. At twenty-three, he is living with his parents and being supported by them. His career as a pianist came to a screeching halt due to his addiction to Percocet. He is now clean but in the way of all addicts, still just one misstep from using again.
Everything changes for Emil when his uncle Gustav dies. Gustav was a world class concert pianist of the caliber to play with the London Symphony Orchestra. He was a composer too. Gustav had come once to see Emil play and then dismissed him as having no talent. Emil had not seen or heard from his uncle since. Why would Gustav leave him a house? A house that is across the country from where he and his parents live? Looking for a fresh start, Emil drives his beat up car with his meager possessions to Newberg, Oregon. To Weatherby House.
The story is told in the first person. It allows the listener to share the emotions and thoughts of Emil as he arrives and finds a large two story house empty except for a massive black Steinway Grand Piano. No other furniture. No light bulbs in any light fixtures and no electricity. With his limited funds, Emil sets up electrical service and buys a few light bulbs and basic foodstuffs and settles in.
The fresh start is going as well as can be expected for Emil when he meets Kelly, a local girl. Kelly, upon hearing he lives in Weatherby House, tells him of its sordid history. The house was constructed by a cult who believed they could possess the bodies of victims they tortured to give them eternal life. When one victim escaped, the cult leaders were caught and jailed. They all died before going to trial.
At this point, I cannot discuss the plot any further with spoilers. So to recap, we have a vulnerable young man, isolated from his family, in recovery from addiction. We have a town that openly shuns Weatherby House and refuses to acknowledge it. We have a house with a bloody and occult history. Even an optimist can see this is going to end badly.
Joe Hempel does a great job narrating. He conveys the tension and fear in Emil’s voice and thoughts very well. He also does a great job on Kelly and other characters. I really enjoyed his narration. I will be seeking out more of his work as well as that of the author, Ambrose Ibsen.
Stop by Weatherby House for a few hours. Just not with all the lights off.
Stirrings in the Black House by Ambrose Ibsen
Narrator: Joe Hempel
on 29 June 2017
Length: 4 hrs and 40 mins
Genres: Horror
Format: Audiobook
Courtesy Audiobook Reviewer
https://audiobookreviewer.com/reviews...
Stirrings in the Black House was a fun haunted house story. When I say fun about a haunted house book, I mean thrilling, scary, nerve racking and had it been a movie there would have been several jump scenes. I enjoyed listening to it.
Emil is a washed up concert pianist. At twenty-three, he is living with his parents and being supported by them. His career as a pianist came to a screeching halt due to his addiction to Percocet. He is now clean but in the way of all addicts, still just one misstep from using again.
Everything changes for Emil when his uncle Gustav dies. Gustav was a world class concert pianist of the caliber to play with the London Symphony Orchestra. He was a composer too. Gustav had come once to see Emil play and then dismissed him as having no talent. Emil had not seen or heard from his uncle since. Why would Gustav leave him a house? A house that is across the country from where he and his parents live? Looking for a fresh start, Emil drives his beat up car with his meager possessions to Newberg, Oregon. To Weatherby House.
The story is told in the first person. It allows the listener to share the emotions and thoughts of Emil as he arrives and finds a large two story house empty except for a massive black Steinway Grand Piano. No other furniture. No light bulbs in any light fixtures and no electricity. With his limited funds, Emil sets up electrical service and buys a few light bulbs and basic foodstuffs and settles in.
The fresh start is going as well as can be expected for Emil when he meets Kelly, a local girl. Kelly, upon hearing he lives in Weatherby House, tells him of its sordid history. The house was constructed by a cult who believed they could possess the bodies of victims they tortured to give them eternal life. When one victim escaped, the cult leaders were caught and jailed. They all died before going to trial.
At this point, I cannot discuss the plot any further with spoilers. So to recap, we have a vulnerable young man, isolated from his family, in recovery from addiction. We have a town that openly shuns Weatherby House and refuses to acknowledge it. We have a house with a bloody and occult history. Even an optimist can see this is going to end badly.
Joe Hempel does a great job narrating. He conveys the tension and fear in Emil’s voice and thoughts very well. He also does a great job on Kelly and other characters. I really enjoyed his narration. I will be seeking out more of his work as well as that of the author, Ambrose Ibsen.
Stop by Weatherby House for a few hours. Just not with all the lights off.
Stirrings in the Black House by Ambrose Ibsen
Narrator: Joe Hempel
on 29 June 2017
Length: 4 hrs and 40 mins
Genres: Horror
Format: Audiobook
Courtesy Audiobook Reviewer
July 2, 2017
Review originally published at: http://www.lomeraniel.com/audiobookre...
I received a free copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
Playing piano is everything for Emil. After a breakdown some months before, he has no job nor prospects in life. Upon his death, his uncle Gustav, famous music composer, leaves Emil an old house in Portland, where Emil moves to and discovers an exceptional piano in the house living room. This could be a new opportunity for Emil and he takes it in stride, until the inhabitants of the little town close to the house start telling him about the gruesome murders committed in the house during the 70's.
I always enjoy a ghost story by Ambrose Ibsen. He is capable of building up the right amount of tension and creating the right atmosphere to make a story startling. Even though I do not believe in ghosts, as I have a rational mind like Emil, the flow of the story caught my attention and kept it until the end. I especially enjoyed the twist, and made complete sense as the only real possibility at that point. It is one of those stories where everything falls elegantly in place.
I liked Emil, a young tormented soul with hopes to forge a better future for himself, and Kelly, the girl who introduces him to the house and stays by his side when he needs it the most. Despite not being a very long novel the characters are fully fleshed, and their actions and words feel natural and fluid.
The narration was beautifully done by Joe Hempel, bringing to life each one of the characters. Not changing them but giving them a little extra, making the book shine and become alive. Listening to a book narrated by Joe Hempel is always an unsurpassable experience.
This is my second book by Ambrose Ibsen, and I am impressed by his writing skills, not only creating characters that are alive but also places with a soul. I am looking forward to listening to his other books.
I received a free copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
Playing piano is everything for Emil. After a breakdown some months before, he has no job nor prospects in life. Upon his death, his uncle Gustav, famous music composer, leaves Emil an old house in Portland, where Emil moves to and discovers an exceptional piano in the house living room. This could be a new opportunity for Emil and he takes it in stride, until the inhabitants of the little town close to the house start telling him about the gruesome murders committed in the house during the 70's.
I always enjoy a ghost story by Ambrose Ibsen. He is capable of building up the right amount of tension and creating the right atmosphere to make a story startling. Even though I do not believe in ghosts, as I have a rational mind like Emil, the flow of the story caught my attention and kept it until the end. I especially enjoyed the twist, and made complete sense as the only real possibility at that point. It is one of those stories where everything falls elegantly in place.
I liked Emil, a young tormented soul with hopes to forge a better future for himself, and Kelly, the girl who introduces him to the house and stays by his side when he needs it the most. Despite not being a very long novel the characters are fully fleshed, and their actions and words feel natural and fluid.
The narration was beautifully done by Joe Hempel, bringing to life each one of the characters. Not changing them but giving them a little extra, making the book shine and become alive. Listening to a book narrated by Joe Hempel is always an unsurpassable experience.
This is my second book by Ambrose Ibsen, and I am impressed by his writing skills, not only creating characters that are alive but also places with a soul. I am looking forward to listening to his other books.
September 13, 2018
The synopsis for Stirrings in the Black House by Ambrose Ibsen definitely piqued my interest. However, this just turned into an okay read.
The pacing was a bit all over the place. Sometimes the pacing would grab me, and I'd turn page after virtual page wanting to know more. However, most of the time, I found the pacing to be very slow.
The plot has been done before. Person inherits house from a distant relative. House turns out to be evil. Person tries not to become possessed. I did like the musical spin that Ambrose Ibsen used though.
The world building felt realistic enough with the exception of how the main character spoke. Unless English wasn't his first language, Emil, the main character, does use an interesting choice of words when speaking sometimes.
I felt that I couldn't really connect with any of the characters. Emil and Kelly are really the two most mentioned characters. While I liked them alright, I just found myself not really caring too much about them.
Trigger warnings include prescription drug abuse, swearing, ghostly possession, drinking as well as underage drinking, some graphic violence, and a haunted house.
Overall, I felt like Stirrings in the Black House was missing something. I didn't feel like it was that creepy or scary. Perhaps it would have been better off having more haunting like things happen throughout the house. I'm not sure. I can't put my finger on what it's missing. I would recommend Stirrings in the Black House by Ambrose Ibsen to those looking for a short read who don't want anything overly creepy. However, Stirrings in the Black House will probably be more of a forgettable read.
The pacing was a bit all over the place. Sometimes the pacing would grab me, and I'd turn page after virtual page wanting to know more. However, most of the time, I found the pacing to be very slow.
The plot has been done before. Person inherits house from a distant relative. House turns out to be evil. Person tries not to become possessed. I did like the musical spin that Ambrose Ibsen used though.
The world building felt realistic enough with the exception of how the main character spoke. Unless English wasn't his first language, Emil, the main character, does use an interesting choice of words when speaking sometimes.
I felt that I couldn't really connect with any of the characters. Emil and Kelly are really the two most mentioned characters. While I liked them alright, I just found myself not really caring too much about them.
Trigger warnings include prescription drug abuse, swearing, ghostly possession, drinking as well as underage drinking, some graphic violence, and a haunted house.
Overall, I felt like Stirrings in the Black House was missing something. I didn't feel like it was that creepy or scary. Perhaps it would have been better off having more haunting like things happen throughout the house. I'm not sure. I can't put my finger on what it's missing. I would recommend Stirrings in the Black House by Ambrose Ibsen to those looking for a short read who don't want anything overly creepy. However, Stirrings in the Black House will probably be more of a forgettable read.
March 16, 2018
***** AUDIOBOOK REVIEW *****
Stirrings in the Black House was a pretty entertaining story. The story was lacking something for me... depth maybe. I would have also loved an ending that was wrapped more up in a bow. It was also a bit of a slow build up for Ambrose Ibsen. Once we got to the meat of the story, it went by quickly and was more stressful than I expected.
As usual, Joe Hempel nails this story! He does the scared and timid voice while still projecting loud enough and clear enough. He is one of my favorite narrators and his creepy and scary stories are just perfection. There are times that he was telling the background on the house that it gave me chills. Just perfect! He brings the stories alive which is exactly what a narrator should do for a good book.
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
Check out my Facebook Page: Next Book Review Facebook
Stirrings in the Black House was a pretty entertaining story. The story was lacking something for me... depth maybe. I would have also loved an ending that was wrapped more up in a bow. It was also a bit of a slow build up for Ambrose Ibsen. Once we got to the meat of the story, it went by quickly and was more stressful than I expected.
As usual, Joe Hempel nails this story! He does the scared and timid voice while still projecting loud enough and clear enough. He is one of my favorite narrators and his creepy and scary stories are just perfection. There are times that he was telling the background on the house that it gave me chills. Just perfect! He brings the stories alive which is exactly what a narrator should do for a good book.
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
Check out my Facebook Page: Next Book Review Facebook
June 7, 2018
Stirrings in the Black House By: Ambrose Ibsen I love Ambrose Ibsen's book and this one is no different. He spins a super creepy story in Stirrings of a Black House, just as he has done with all of his other books I have read/listened to. In this book Emil inherits his Uncle's house. Not sure why since they were never close Emil heads for the house to start a new life. he gets way more then he bargains for at Weatherby House. Not only is it creepy it is set out of the center of town and also the townspeople tend to stay clear of the house and the legend of what happened there at one time. After a while Emil stats to wonder if he is going crazy with the piano music and other noises at night, and lets not forget the apparitions he sees. Emil stats to research the house and the legends involved. He gets more then he bargains for in the end.
April 17, 2020
I love a good ghost story, the kind that keeps you up late at night. "Stirrings in the Black House" had the title and pretty much delivered the goods. A talented young concert pianist has been blacklisted because of a drug-fueled meltdown on stage. Emil is struggling to overcome his addiction and perform again, when he inherits a house from his uncle. Weatherby House is across the country from his parent's home - and it's the kind of bleak, isolated manse the locals know to avoid. The house is dirty, deserted and completely unfurnished save for the huge concert grand his uncle left behind. Emil feels he has no choice but to move in and, eventually, deal with the disturbances that creep up around him. Find lots of suspense and eerie tension here.
February 28, 2023
I can say that I liked the concept, it was something a little different. But I figured out what was going on fairly early and I felt like I spent way too long waiting for Emil to catch up or something to happen. Emil was also very unlikable and Kelly came across more like a younger sister to him which did not help. The conversations he had with her without fail always contained something cringe-worthy. I also felt as though there should have been something about his parents at the end. But the ghost parts were enjoyable.
July 12, 2017
This was a good horror tale, but a bit grey for me.I liked the haunted house end of things and the end ,of course.It was some of the descriptions I had to ff through.Anyway ,A man inherits a house from an uncle that paid no attention to him in life.Being in a bad spot, he moves in and the real family horror story begins.Joe Hempel is an excellent narrator.I was provided this book free by the author, narrator or publisher.
April 14, 2019
Books about haunted houses are my guilty pleasure, and I rarely get surprised.
It was okay, story a bit more inventive than most, but lacked some stronger backstory, especially of uncle Gustav, and there were story lines left unfinished.
"House of the long shadows" was more intense, though when thinking about it, carries the similar narrative - a young man, with not so common profession in a haunted house with dark history.
It was okay, story a bit more inventive than most, but lacked some stronger backstory, especially of uncle Gustav, and there were story lines left unfinished.
"House of the long shadows" was more intense, though when thinking about it, carries the similar narrative - a young man, with not so common profession in a haunted house with dark history.
December 22, 2021
Wow, this author and narrator create the best audiobooks in the horror genre. Emil inherits his absent uncle's house in an out-of-the-way part of Portland he thought his luck has changed. Broke and down on his luck as a pianist, he moves his few belonging to Weatherby House. It doesn't take long before he is doubting his choices.
Joe Hempel is the King of Horror narration, he is amazing with this story.
Joe Hempel is the King of Horror narration, he is amazing with this story.
August 15, 2017
Stirrings in the Black House by Ambrose Ibsen was a great read. Emil is a concert pianist who has been struggling as of late. He inherits his late uncles house. He starts to believe all his problems have been solved, that is until strange things start happening. I absolutely loved reading this book, it kept me on my toes.
December 4, 2019
A narcissistic uncle leaves his house and expensive piano to a nephew he dislikes
From a deranged cult to greedy ghosts this stays creepy till the end
Excellent narration from joe hempel as always
Highly recommended to all horror fans
I received a free review audiobook and voluntarily left this review
From a deranged cult to greedy ghosts this stays creepy till the end
Excellent narration from joe hempel as always
Highly recommended to all horror fans
I received a free review audiobook and voluntarily left this review
June 12, 2020
This was the one with the classical musician, moved into the house (haunted of course, that's why I picked up the book after all) he inherited by an estranged uncle.
I think that parts of the reveal are needlessly complicated but I don't want to spoil anything. Overall it's another quick read, Ibsen always giving enough to spark curiosity to keep reading.
I think that parts of the reveal are needlessly complicated but I don't want to spoil anything. Overall it's another quick read, Ibsen always giving enough to spark curiosity to keep reading.
June 24, 2017
Specter-tacular!
Normally ghost stories are creepy and atmospheric, but these ghosts were down right evil! Never been so scared of ghosts! A truly terrifying book. I highly recommend everything by this author.
Normally ghost stories are creepy and atmospheric, but these ghosts were down right evil! Never been so scared of ghosts! A truly terrifying book. I highly recommend everything by this author.
June 27, 2017
Great Ghost Story
Emil has now inherited his late uncle's house...but it just might not be free.
The house has a past that included ritual murder and he is running out of time to figure out where he is in the equation.
Very good !!!
Emil has now inherited his late uncle's house...but it just might not be free.
The house has a past that included ritual murder and he is running out of time to figure out where he is in the equation.
Very good !!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews