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Winthrop House #2
Winthrop House
"They say the Jackal Man lives in that house..."
Months after a family is forced to flee the beachfront property on 100 Winthrop Road, three young travelers lost outside of Cutler, Maine find themselves taking shelter in it. Strapped for cash, the three of them spend a night in the house, wondering why the lovely old building has been left abandoned.
They don't have to wonder for long.
Strange things take place in the empty house. Noises come from behind the walls, and its occupants feel as though they're being constantly watched. The townsfolk are quick to warn them away from the property, sharing with them bits and pieces of its terrible history.
But by then, it may already be too late. Winthrop House has a mind of its own, and the entities that dwell there won't rest until they have what they want.
Months after a family is forced to flee the beachfront property on 100 Winthrop Road, three young travelers lost outside of Cutler, Maine find themselves taking shelter in it. Strapped for cash, the three of them spend a night in the house, wondering why the lovely old building has been left abandoned.
They don't have to wonder for long.
Strange things take place in the empty house. Noises come from behind the walls, and its occupants feel as though they're being constantly watched. The townsfolk are quick to warn them away from the property, sharing with them bits and pieces of its terrible history.
But by then, it may already be too late. Winthrop House has a mind of its own, and the entities that dwell there won't rest until they have what they want.
- GenresHorror
139 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2017
82 people are currently reading
155 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.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 6, 2021
This was a great spooky read!
A small backstory:
Naomi, Ben, and Sam are traveling and they need a place to stay as they do not have enough money to find a motel. They come up on the Winthrop House and decide to stay there. Little do they know that they have made a grave mistake as they have no idea what is in store for them as they know nothing of what has previously happened with the house.
Thoughts:
This was just as a good as the first book and though it is in series, the book can be read as a stand alone as the though the house is involved the characters are different. The author has a tendency to wrap the reader into the story with the characters and keep the reader suspended in time with the story.
In my opinion, the second book is creepy and the book moves along at lightning speed. However, the reason for the four stars instead of five is that the mystery of the entity in the house is not as secretive like it was in the first book so the spooky atmosphere is there, but not saturated with dread like the first book.
Still the book kept me entertained all the way through it and it definitely has some chill factors throughout the story. Giving this one four "creep-out" stars!
A small backstory:
Naomi, Ben, and Sam are traveling and they need a place to stay as they do not have enough money to find a motel. They come up on the Winthrop House and decide to stay there. Little do they know that they have made a grave mistake as they have no idea what is in store for them as they know nothing of what has previously happened with the house.
Thoughts:
This was just as a good as the first book and though it is in series, the book can be read as a stand alone as the though the house is involved the characters are different. The author has a tendency to wrap the reader into the story with the characters and keep the reader suspended in time with the story.
In my opinion, the second book is creepy and the book moves along at lightning speed. However, the reason for the four stars instead of five is that the mystery of the entity in the house is not as secretive like it was in the first book so the spooky atmosphere is there, but not saturated with dread like the first book.
Still the book kept me entertained all the way through it and it definitely has some chill factors throughout the story. Giving this one four "creep-out" stars!
July 20, 2017
WINTHROP HOUSE, by Ambrose Ibsen, is Book 2 in the Winthrop House series, following in the aftermath of A HOUSE BY THE SEA. However, this novel is a standalone story, and readers who haven't read Book 1 in the series won't be missing any information pertinent to this tale.
The land that the seaside house of 100 Winthrop Road was built upon, has been surrounded by unease, fear, and repulsion for as far back as any could remember. The last residents--like many residents before them--having run out from the house in a relatively short time span. Now, empty, this large dwelling by the sea is about to become a temporary shelter for three young adults on an extended road trip: Sam, Naomi, and Ben.
". . . the ground isn't right . . . when our ancestors first settled here, they knew to stay away."
Despite the outward beauty of the place, two of the three travelers immediately begin to get a strong, unpleasant feeling for it, as well as some very realistic hallucinations.
"This house. They say it eats people up . . ."
Even when out in the town, they can't seem to shake the fearful certainty of being watched. To Naomi, it's as if the house has already taken a part of her with it.
". . . in its way, the house had imprinted on her, left a kind of mark on her soul . . ."
The few main characters that Ibsen uses in this book serve to illustrate the tension and terror of the "unknown" that they have unconsciously stumbled upon. Unlike the previous family (in Book 1) who moved into this house, these characters are only there for a temporary respite--completely unaware of anything that had happened there in years past.
". . . Things don't follow the natural order out there . . . "
The house on Winthrop Road is as much a character in this novel as the humans are. Without the advance knowledge of the area, to the three travelers, every noise, sight, and nightmare are products they believe to be emanating form the house--as a structure--as opposed to something being used as a "doorway", of sorts. Naomi seems the most susceptible to the enigmatic influences surrounding the house--her intuition immediately picking up a sense of "wrongness". Despite this, circumstances and her companions overrule her concerns, making their contact with the house inevitable.
". . . Something in that house had touched them, made a connection . . ."
This novel held a great deal of atmospheric tension and a strong fear of the unknown pervading it at all times. The idea that merely stepping foot onto the land is enough to get the attention of "unknown influences", kept this tale suspenseful all throughout.
Recommended!
The land that the seaside house of 100 Winthrop Road was built upon, has been surrounded by unease, fear, and repulsion for as far back as any could remember. The last residents--like many residents before them--having run out from the house in a relatively short time span. Now, empty, this large dwelling by the sea is about to become a temporary shelter for three young adults on an extended road trip: Sam, Naomi, and Ben.
". . . the ground isn't right . . . when our ancestors first settled here, they knew to stay away."
Despite the outward beauty of the place, two of the three travelers immediately begin to get a strong, unpleasant feeling for it, as well as some very realistic hallucinations.
"This house. They say it eats people up . . ."
Even when out in the town, they can't seem to shake the fearful certainty of being watched. To Naomi, it's as if the house has already taken a part of her with it.
". . . in its way, the house had imprinted on her, left a kind of mark on her soul . . ."
The few main characters that Ibsen uses in this book serve to illustrate the tension and terror of the "unknown" that they have unconsciously stumbled upon. Unlike the previous family (in Book 1) who moved into this house, these characters are only there for a temporary respite--completely unaware of anything that had happened there in years past.
". . . Things don't follow the natural order out there . . . "
The house on Winthrop Road is as much a character in this novel as the humans are. Without the advance knowledge of the area, to the three travelers, every noise, sight, and nightmare are products they believe to be emanating form the house--as a structure--as opposed to something being used as a "doorway", of sorts. Naomi seems the most susceptible to the enigmatic influences surrounding the house--her intuition immediately picking up a sense of "wrongness". Despite this, circumstances and her companions overrule her concerns, making their contact with the house inevitable.
". . . Something in that house had touched them, made a connection . . ."
This novel held a great deal of atmospheric tension and a strong fear of the unknown pervading it at all times. The idea that merely stepping foot onto the land is enough to get the attention of "unknown influences", kept this tale suspenseful all throughout.
Recommended!
December 6, 2019
Well, Ambrose, the second one was certainly creepy as well! We get to see three friends manipulated by the house and we will just call them... “the occupants,” using a diverse set of skills that was impressive. Those were things only an old presence adept at luring its sacrifices would now know to do. Even if you stay away, it will make sure you show up... one way or another.
The house where The Jackal Man Lives....
I’m really starting to like Ibsen’s take on haunted houses. It’s different and fun to wrap your mind around every now and then. As long as I can get it out of my head later!! Of course !
Yes, this makes a second or third now that I have read that the series is where it is the house you should be watching for....
The house where The Jackal Man Lives....
I’m really starting to like Ibsen’s take on haunted houses. It’s different and fun to wrap your mind around every now and then. As long as I can get it out of my head later!! Of course !
Yes, this makes a second or third now that I have read that the series is where it is the house you should be watching for....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2023
Winthrop House begins a few weeks after the previous book concludes. This one takes off not long afterward, I won't spoil the first book by saying how, but it is a variety that instead of house hunters, you have three weary young road travelers who come across the house to camp in overnight. Same town, same monster, same house, but different dynamics.
'
Instead of having secrets and horror slowly creep in and reveal, things start happening right away to these temporary guests, who spend much less time in the house, forced to come back when they know they shouldn't. The first had a Ouija, this one dishes out tarot cards.
Naomi, Ben, and Sam are the leads - each other them have a little of their past revealed, but the points of view remain between Naomi and Ben to carry the bulk of the story, with one chapter sneaking in later briefly for an outsider's perspective. The townsfolk chew on scenery as they react to the new of the exploring gang's destination, much like the first book with plenty of wide eyes, shocked gasps, and warnings. The characters work well for the type of story.
The first book had some stand-out creepy moments, especially the ending. This one does as well if read in a dark room like I did, but not the same oomph, maybe because the build-up has been established and there isn't as much time for subtlety.
Haunting stories are a dime a dozen but something stands out with some of Ibsen's books, especially this two book series. The Jackal Man is unique, and it's not a mere ghost or demon tormenting only for torment sake. While reading it, you're not sure who - if anyone - will survive and how that will carry out. I confess not getting the full breadth of the legend and superstitious details, but they try to expound slightly here on sacrifice in addition to what's covered in the first book, but it's a shorter romp and more direct/rushed in storyline.
Recommended reading, but definitely should read the first in the series first.
'
Instead of having secrets and horror slowly creep in and reveal, things start happening right away to these temporary guests, who spend much less time in the house, forced to come back when they know they shouldn't. The first had a Ouija, this one dishes out tarot cards.
Naomi, Ben, and Sam are the leads - each other them have a little of their past revealed, but the points of view remain between Naomi and Ben to carry the bulk of the story, with one chapter sneaking in later briefly for an outsider's perspective. The townsfolk chew on scenery as they react to the new of the exploring gang's destination, much like the first book with plenty of wide eyes, shocked gasps, and warnings. The characters work well for the type of story.
The first book had some stand-out creepy moments, especially the ending. This one does as well if read in a dark room like I did, but not the same oomph, maybe because the build-up has been established and there isn't as much time for subtlety.
Haunting stories are a dime a dozen but something stands out with some of Ibsen's books, especially this two book series. The Jackal Man is unique, and it's not a mere ghost or demon tormenting only for torment sake. While reading it, you're not sure who - if anyone - will survive and how that will carry out. I confess not getting the full breadth of the legend and superstitious details, but they try to expound slightly here on sacrifice in addition to what's covered in the first book, but it's a shorter romp and more direct/rushed in storyline.
Recommended reading, but definitely should read the first in the series first.
July 4, 2017
I just love this author!
As far as I am concerned, Ambrose Ibsen is one of new masters of horror. Of course I want Stephen king, Dean Koontz, Anne Rice, Clive Barker, Bentley Little, and a few others to become immortal, as I have a hard time imagining horror without them. But at the same time we all have to accept that they won't always be here to bring us new gifts of their amazing talent. New artists will become the tried and true of the next generation and I believe Ambrose Ibsen will be one of the future masters. He will only continue to hone his craft, which is already quite good. Winthrop House was another well thought out, creepy, edge of your seat and memorable book by Mr. Ibsen. I didn't realize that it was the second story in a series about the house and town until I finished it. But I have already downloaded the first, A House By The Sea. However, I feel like I didn't need to read the first one necessarily, as I never felt confused about anything. But of course I want to read every single thing that this guy writes! Hells, his grocery list is probably entertaining and spine tingling!
As far as I am concerned, Ambrose Ibsen is one of new masters of horror. Of course I want Stephen king, Dean Koontz, Anne Rice, Clive Barker, Bentley Little, and a few others to become immortal, as I have a hard time imagining horror without them. But at the same time we all have to accept that they won't always be here to bring us new gifts of their amazing talent. New artists will become the tried and true of the next generation and I believe Ambrose Ibsen will be one of the future masters. He will only continue to hone his craft, which is already quite good. Winthrop House was another well thought out, creepy, edge of your seat and memorable book by Mr. Ibsen. I didn't realize that it was the second story in a series about the house and town until I finished it. But I have already downloaded the first, A House By The Sea. However, I feel like I didn't need to read the first one necessarily, as I never felt confused about anything. But of course I want to read every single thing that this guy writes! Hells, his grocery list is probably entertaining and spine tingling!
July 4, 2025
This book is freaking scary! I love how Ambrose Ibsen can create feelings of terror with his writing style. He’s great at building spooky atmospheres and knowing how to layout a scene just right to leave the reader on edge. He doesn’t need gore or any shock value. Just classic story telling that is hard to read when alone.
I didn’t realize until I finished that this was the second book in the series. A House By the Sea is the first. Which means Winthrop House does just fine as a stand alone, too! I’m going to read the first now to find out more about past owner, Jack Ripley’s experience in Winthrop House.
I didn’t realize until I finished that this was the second book in the series. A House By the Sea is the first. Which means Winthrop House does just fine as a stand alone, too! I’m going to read the first now to find out more about past owner, Jack Ripley’s experience in Winthrop House.
April 24, 2022
A curious read
The first third of the book was very annoying. The conversations of the three characters discussing the future of their lives was pitiful at their ages. Beyond that the story was intense. The most unusual thing about the book was how it seemed to be written by someone English trying to sound American. Many of the phrases were out of place. The characters didn’t speak like Americans. Weird…..
The first third of the book was very annoying. The conversations of the three characters discussing the future of their lives was pitiful at their ages. Beyond that the story was intense. The most unusual thing about the book was how it seemed to be written by someone English trying to sound American. Many of the phrases were out of place. The characters didn’t speak like Americans. Weird…..
February 10, 2023
I was hoping to have some questions answered that I was left with from the first book. A few were answered, but not all. Like why was it that they thought the old man had died 25 years ago? There us obviously a mystery there. It’s one of those things in the story that doesn’t seem necessary to it unless they are going to go back to that later. Maybe there will be a third book to explain it? Or did I miss something? I also found the story itself very dull and repetitive. I’d also like to know how Ben was going to explain his missing friends to their families…🤔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2024
This one also ended to early. And what is the deal with Jackel man? He's not very scary at all if you don't know his history. When he comes to collect people all he does is whisper there name all creepily and reach out towards them. Sorta expected him to torment his victims a little before he collects them. They all got themselves the most worked up then after totally freaking themselves out that's when he just shows up. I think maybe both these books were just not long enough for me.
January 5, 2025
As other reviews say this book you can read alone and not need to read book one in this series which disappointed me but we do sort of find out what happened to the author in book one. This is my least favorite book by this author. This book is 2 stars because cmon let's get real here how many times are these kids going back to this house when they know they need to not go back?!?!? Couldn't wait for this read to be over. Book one was great. This one i say pass on reading.
June 21, 2017
What a waste
This has to be the dumbest book, I have ever read. This could have been a short story. I think it would make an excellent screenplay, for a SYfy channel movie. The characters were very nieve and just dumb. There were so many directions this story could have went, but didn't. Overall just not a good story .
This has to be the dumbest book, I have ever read. This could have been a short story. I think it would make an excellent screenplay, for a SYfy channel movie. The characters were very nieve and just dumb. There were so many directions this story could have went, but didn't. Overall just not a good story .
June 24, 2017
Great Story!!
This is a sequel to the first in the series but can be read as a stand alone.
Three friends, without knowing about the sinister history, stay in the Winthrop House....only discover its secrets for themselves.
Will they make it out alive or become part of its horrific lore?
Pick this up, its good!!!
This is a sequel to the first in the series but can be read as a stand alone.
Three friends, without knowing about the sinister history, stay in the Winthrop House....only discover its secrets for themselves.
Will they make it out alive or become part of its horrific lore?
Pick this up, its good!!!
June 17, 2019
Book two
I'm not a Dan of book series, in fact, I steer clear of them as much as possible. Some catch my eye, as the first book in this series did, but usually I never read further than book one. I loved this series. I couldn't not read the second book. Spooky with great characters and an intriguing setting. Ibsen did not disappoint.
I'm not a Dan of book series, in fact, I steer clear of them as much as possible. Some catch my eye, as the first book in this series did, but usually I never read further than book one. I loved this series. I couldn't not read the second book. Spooky with great characters and an intriguing setting. Ibsen did not disappoint.
January 18, 2022
Enjoyable read
I have always liked the "maybe we shouldn't go in there" genre of horror. The old beautiful mansions with dark pasts! Ambrose Ibsen is a master at this I like all his work and I bet you will too! I am a huge Stephen King Dean Koontz fan, but I will say this these authors I stumble across on my Kindle unlimited have something to talk about!
I have always liked the "maybe we shouldn't go in there" genre of horror. The old beautiful mansions with dark pasts! Ambrose Ibsen is a master at this I like all his work and I bet you will too! I am a huge Stephen King Dean Koontz fan, but I will say this these authors I stumble across on my Kindle unlimited have something to talk about!
July 12, 2017
Held my interest
Good storyline, good editing. Enjoyable bedtime reading. Nice twist at the end. I wish the book had been longer, the end felt a bit rushed. Still you'll enjoy Winthrop House.
Good storyline, good editing. Enjoyable bedtime reading. Nice twist at the end. I wish the book had been longer, the end felt a bit rushed. Still you'll enjoy Winthrop House.
June 14, 2017
Loved it would recommend it highly . Creepy the way I like them. Three young adults going into an empty creepy house can only mean one thing,crazy
January 21, 2018
One of the best I have read
On the edge of my seat throughout the reading of this book! Sorry, when it ended. Hope to find another by this author.
On the edge of my seat throughout the reading of this book! Sorry, when it ended. Hope to find another by this author.
October 28, 2021
This second book was so much fun! And my favorite narrator too!
April 10, 2022
Great story. One of those books where you want to yell at the main character for being obtuse, but he finally get's it. I really enjoyed it.
April 22, 2023
Good scary read...
Good scary read. I loved this more than the first book in the series. This book actually gave me goosebumps.
Good scary read. I loved this more than the first book in the series. This book actually gave me goosebumps.
November 30, 2023
I read this first by accident but I love Ibsen's work! Best haunted houses!
July 1, 2024
3.5, 1st book was better to me
January 13, 2025
A well paced easy read. Ending has mega creepy vibes.
August 4, 2020
Second book in the series.
I have yet to read a bad book by Ibsen. Really.
He manages to weave a good story without coming across as forced or unrealistic. I love it when authors write their mains as a writer, so this hit another plot point for me.
Classic ghost story. Kept me interested and on the edge of my seat. Read it in one day, like all his books.
I have yet to read a bad book by Ibsen. Really.
He manages to weave a good story without coming across as forced or unrealistic. I love it when authors write their mains as a writer, so this hit another plot point for me.
Classic ghost story. Kept me interested and on the edge of my seat. Read it in one day, like all his books.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews