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Stephen
Fresh from the convent, Beryl Seaton accepts a position as governess for the Brooks family. When she arrives at the family's remote house, however, she discovers that a terrible secret is waiting for her in the nursery. From the author of Asylum and The Farm, Stephen is a horror novel about a young woman who finds herself torn between two worlds. Desperate to help her employers in their hour of need, she nevertheless struggles to look after their son. What happened to Stephen, to leave him the way he is? What happened to the previous governess at Grangehurst? And what causes the sobbing sound that seem to drift through an empty room? By the time she uncovers the awful truth about the family, and about little Stephen, it might be too late for Beryl to ever leave.
316 pages, ebook
First published October 27, 2017
983 people are currently reading
2623 people want to read
About the author
Amy Cross
664 books1,686 followersAmy Cross writes novels and short stories in a number of genres, mainly horror, paranormal and fantasy. Books include The Farm, Annie's Room, The Island, Eli's Town and Asylum.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 360 reviews
November 18, 2017
There’s horror, and then there’s “hair-raising” horror; and after reading this book, I now know what the latter means. Several days ago, I woke up in the middle of the night, and headed through my dark house to the kitchen. As I was waiting for my eyes to adjust to the darkness, a scene from this book flashed in my memory, and every hair on my arms was suddenly standing on end. This book is that scary, and messed up, and seriously disturbing.
The bulk of it takes place in 1899, when a young woman is offered a job to be the governess at a remote mansion. The occupants are a husband, wife, and their infant child, Stephen...
SPOILERS –
The child is dead, and well on his way to rotting. His mother has refused to accept his death, and treats the corpse as if he was alive. The father convinces the new governess that this is all perfectly normal as part of the grieving process, and her job will be to assist the mother with caring for the child as if he was a living infant. With this as the setup, the author, Amy Cross, proceeds to paint this terrifying gothic portrait of a descent into madness.
And to top things off – this house is apparently haunted, as the governess will occasionally hear moans and weeping coming from empty rooms.
Everything about this book just works – the writing, the dialogue, the edge of your seat tension, and the almost suffocating sense of dread that permeates this book.
Chapter 28 is the most disturbing, terrifying, and messed up thing you’ll ever read. Holy crap.
Thankfully, Kasie West came out with a new book I can go read to detox =)
The bulk of it takes place in 1899, when a young woman is offered a job to be the governess at a remote mansion. The occupants are a husband, wife, and their infant child, Stephen...
SPOILERS –
The child is dead, and well on his way to rotting. His mother has refused to accept his death, and treats the corpse as if he was alive. The father convinces the new governess that this is all perfectly normal as part of the grieving process, and her job will be to assist the mother with caring for the child as if he was a living infant. With this as the setup, the author, Amy Cross, proceeds to paint this terrifying gothic portrait of a descent into madness.
And to top things off – this house is apparently haunted, as the governess will occasionally hear moans and weeping coming from empty rooms.
Everything about this book just works – the writing, the dialogue, the edge of your seat tension, and the almost suffocating sense of dread that permeates this book.
Chapter 28 is the most disturbing, terrifying, and messed up thing you’ll ever read. Holy crap.
Thankfully, Kasie West came out with a new book I can go read to detox =)
September 15, 2021
Kind of Unexpected?
Not really what I expected it would be. Had a lot of suspense and suspenseful moments.
Definitely a lot of mystery. Kept me on my toes trying to figure it out, but the ending was totally unexpected.
I’m not saying that I find the book particularly scary, but it is very interesting and very suspenseful.
Amy Cross fans (like me), will enjoy this book.
Not really what I expected it would be. Had a lot of suspense and suspenseful moments.
Definitely a lot of mystery. Kept me on my toes trying to figure it out, but the ending was totally unexpected.
I’m not saying that I find the book particularly scary, but it is very interesting and very suspenseful.
Amy Cross fans (like me), will enjoy this book.
January 19, 2020
Take Rebecca, mix in a healthy dose of The Turn of the Screw and The Fall of the House of Usher, add a dash of WTFery and a splash of extreme horror and you’ll have Stephen by Amy Cross.
This is Cross in full neogothic novel mode, and she succeeds beautifully. Let me start by saying that I absolutely loved this book. Let me also say that it is absolutely not for everyone. Many of the reviews contain warnings about some of the themes presented here, and they are all completely correct. I have never felt the need to warn people about reading a novel before, but really do in this case.
(Potential Spoiler Ahead, although this is revealed in the first chapter, so not really)
If you are considering reading Stephen, you should ask yourself one question: “Am I comfortable with the thought of reading a novel that has four main characters, one of whom is the rotting corpse of a months old baby that some of the characters are pretending is still alive?” If the answer is no, then this is not the book for you. This is perhaps the least disturbing aspect of this novel.
Overall, however, I found this to be a real pageturner.
This is Cross in full neogothic novel mode, and she succeeds beautifully. Let me start by saying that I absolutely loved this book. Let me also say that it is absolutely not for everyone. Many of the reviews contain warnings about some of the themes presented here, and they are all completely correct. I have never felt the need to warn people about reading a novel before, but really do in this case.
(Potential Spoiler Ahead, although this is revealed in the first chapter, so not really)
If you are considering reading Stephen, you should ask yourself one question: “Am I comfortable with the thought of reading a novel that has four main characters, one of whom is the rotting corpse of a months old baby that some of the characters are pretending is still alive?” If the answer is no, then this is not the book for you. This is perhaps the least disturbing aspect of this novel.
Overall, however, I found this to be a real pageturner.
February 23, 2025
okay i guess? it was not at all what i thought it was, some of the writing just wasn’t something i really enjoy, but it had its moments of suspense and horror. could be super creepy at times. just sorta meh
June 9, 2018
Um, while I get why other might ppl like this (sort of )and I see how dynamic it is, No. No. it’s not for me. It was way too gross-out yuck to me.
Edit:
This will offend sensitivities, morals, values, it will set off triggers. Some ppl like this type of horror but for those that want a creepy gothic tale and stumble into this, listen to the warning ⚠️
This is gonna mess with your head in several areas big time in several areas having to do with infanticide, grief, mental issues, religious disciplines, incest, desecration, something so gross I don’t have a word for it, not to mention suicide, death, violence, s&m, and almost rape.
The something so gross just .. it.. I was gagging. It was worse than maggots. Digging out maggots. Way worse.
Though I do feel the author does a good job to try to warn you things are gonna get gross in the 28th chapter, my imagination let me down. It was worse than the worst I imagined.
Edit:
This will offend sensitivities, morals, values, it will set off triggers. Some ppl like this type of horror but for those that want a creepy gothic tale and stumble into this, listen to the warning ⚠️
This is gonna mess with your head in several areas big time in several areas having to do with infanticide, grief, mental issues, religious disciplines, incest, desecration, something so gross I don’t have a word for it, not to mention suicide, death, violence, s&m, and almost rape.
The something so gross just .. it.. I was gagging. It was worse than maggots. Digging out maggots. Way worse.
Though I do feel the author does a good job to try to warn you things are gonna get gross in the 28th chapter, my imagination let me down. It was worse than the worst I imagined.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2025
I’m not going to lie, I decided to read this book because of the cover. I was expecting to read a creepy haunted house book but we didn’t really get that at all.
Instead we get a new governess named Beryl, taking care of who thinks she is a baby named Stephen. But it turns out that Stephen is actually dead. What started as a shock to her, quickly turns into Beryl going along with her employers delusions and caring for the deceased child.
This book was not at all what I was expecting. I was hoping for more spooky ghost stuff but there was only like 1 or 2 instances of actually encountering any sort of paranormal activity. And even then it was extremely brief.
Overall it was an okay book. I cant help but think that the cover doesn’t really match the book. So if you’re like me and hoping to get a creepy book, this probably isn’t the one for you. 🤷🏻♀️
Instead we get a new governess named Beryl, taking care of who thinks she is a baby named Stephen. But it turns out that Stephen is actually dead. What started as a shock to her, quickly turns into Beryl going along with her employers delusions and caring for the deceased child.
This book was not at all what I was expecting. I was hoping for more spooky ghost stuff but there was only like 1 or 2 instances of actually encountering any sort of paranormal activity. And even then it was extremely brief.
Overall it was an okay book. I cant help but think that the cover doesn’t really match the book. So if you’re like me and hoping to get a creepy book, this probably isn’t the one for you. 🤷🏻♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2019
Hmm. People didn’t seem to like this book and I see why. Maybe I’ve just read messed up things that it doesn’t bother me as much? Idk. I like reading macabre things so ch28 was prob the best if most interesting chapter in the book and maybe the ending was pretty satisfying. Everything in between kind of dragged on for me. I think the book would have been better if it left some of the fluff and filler out, but overall, not a bad book. I’d be interested in reading some of her other stuff. Any suggestions welcome as she seems to have a large catalogue.
February 25, 2025
I read this in one setting. Had me beyond enthralled. Nothing was what I expected. The ending was the most wild thing I’ve ever read in my life.
Read
October 9, 2024I'm not going to rate this, but I couldn't finish it. The character development is so thin. I'm not invested in this story. It doesn't feel Gothic or historical and to be totally honest, it was reminding me too much of a favorite show I watched on Apple TV called, Servant.
I just couldn't hang with this one any longer, not even to see what all the fuss is about over those last few chapters.
I just couldn't hang with this one any longer, not even to see what all the fuss is about over those last few chapters.
December 2, 2024
This book had me in a choke hold from the first moment Stephen is introduced. Each time I thought it couldn’t get any more disturbing and grim, that’s precisely what it did. It was so descriptive I could smell the rooms I swear. Not for the squeamish at all but such a good read!
August 12, 2025
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS: Please be warned that most of this story is so much more than just graphic horror. If you have never read a book warning in your entire life...BE SURE TO READ THIS ONE. They aren't just trying to sell you a book. Many reviews from die-hard horror fans have said that this was the most disgusting book they had ever read...yet they also said that it was very hard to put it down because of how gripping story was. But please be warned, some of the story will cause more than just TRIGGERS...it will provide long-lasting nightmares for some.
Some houses remember...some never forgive. When Beryl Seaton accepts a position as governess at the isolated Brooks estate, she expects little more than a lonely winter in the English countryside. But the moment she crosses the threshold, the house begins to whisper. Her young charge, Stephen, is silent and strange. The nursery is sealed. And no one will speak of the woman who held the position before her. At night the halls echo with quiet sobbing. Doors open on their own. Something watches from the shadows. As Beryl delves into the estate’s haunting history, she uncovers a truth more chilling than she ever imagined – a truth soaked in sorrow, sealed by silence, and clawing to be heard. What happened in that house refuses to stay hidden… and refuses to let her go. Even years later, Beryl will ask herself the same question: did she ever really leave?
There is a plethora of warnings in, and for, this book...I usually take them with a shrug and a grain of salt, I've found very few things that I can say actually affect, bother, or truly scares me, unless it involves cruelty to an animal...those I avoid like the plague. But believe me these warnings were not posted just in order to sell the book...although without a doubt, they probably did just that. I'm going to try very hard not to give anything away, which is almost impossible with this one.
If you are still holding the book in your hands and searching through it, chances are that you will come across quite a lot of discussions and reviews about "Chapter 28". This was a clever approach that I had never before seen...the author used the protagonist to "speak" to the readers and tell them to avoid the chapter and go on to the next one. It is a warning that those who are squeamish and easily disturbed, really, really need to heed. Of course I didn't, as I have said nothing much bothers me that's in print and not happening on my doorstep. My curiosity, as it was supposed to be... was piqued, and oh yes...I read Chapter 28. Take my word for it... you may not want to read this chapter 28, or this book for that matter...at least while eating or drinking.
Beryl Seaton was the perfect protagonist, and, in the prologue, she tells us that she is ready to write her story about all the events that occurred in Grangehurst, where she once worked as a governess for the Brooks family. She goes into a flashback, to the year 1899 when she had seen an ad for a governess position. She applies and meets Doctor Elliot Brooks who was not at all impressed by her during the interview. He dismisses her for the position until she on her way out and stops to offer help to a man who has had an accident. Her quick response to the catastrophe is what now impresses Dr Brooks, and he then decides to hire her.
Arriving at the estate, Beryl realizes that it is really isolated, huge and daunting. Doctor Brooks is welcoming at first, but he suddenly changes when she starts asking questions about the "Lady of the house", and the baby she's been hired to care for. Beryl goes upstairs to meet Mrs. Brooks and at first finds her odd but then finds her more friendly as she speaks with her. Beryl is especially eager to meet the baby. When the meeting takes place, she realizes why she couldn’t hear the baby crying before. This is the first, and the beginning, of the really terrifying parts of the story...and I'm not going to say why the baby or Mrs. Brooks becomes a couple of terrifying characters. I will tell you that if you get past "this meeting", the story will have you hooked. For here on Beryl is portrayed as the woman who looks like she needs someone's sympathy and protection...because SHE DOES! Her character takes an interesting turn from this point on.
In this story, no one and nothing are as they seem. You feel the deep unsetting that surrounds the people and the house. The author instills your curiosity as Beryl checks out her surroundings. Dr. & Mrs. Brooks are not what they appear to be and as the reader you will very quickly catch on to that. There is a clever twist in chapter 3, that will leave you absolutely stunned. Again, be warned that it is very uncomfortable and much more than merely morbid, but you can use it as a test to see just how far you want or can go before you decide to close the book. From the reviews that I have read about this one...you won't be the first one to do so. In spite of all the warnings, I'm glad that I stayed.... but I really don't EVER want to read this again.
Some houses remember...some never forgive. When Beryl Seaton accepts a position as governess at the isolated Brooks estate, she expects little more than a lonely winter in the English countryside. But the moment she crosses the threshold, the house begins to whisper. Her young charge, Stephen, is silent and strange. The nursery is sealed. And no one will speak of the woman who held the position before her. At night the halls echo with quiet sobbing. Doors open on their own. Something watches from the shadows. As Beryl delves into the estate’s haunting history, she uncovers a truth more chilling than she ever imagined – a truth soaked in sorrow, sealed by silence, and clawing to be heard. What happened in that house refuses to stay hidden… and refuses to let her go. Even years later, Beryl will ask herself the same question: did she ever really leave?
There is a plethora of warnings in, and for, this book...I usually take them with a shrug and a grain of salt, I've found very few things that I can say actually affect, bother, or truly scares me, unless it involves cruelty to an animal...those I avoid like the plague. But believe me these warnings were not posted just in order to sell the book...although without a doubt, they probably did just that. I'm going to try very hard not to give anything away, which is almost impossible with this one.
If you are still holding the book in your hands and searching through it, chances are that you will come across quite a lot of discussions and reviews about "Chapter 28". This was a clever approach that I had never before seen...the author used the protagonist to "speak" to the readers and tell them to avoid the chapter and go on to the next one. It is a warning that those who are squeamish and easily disturbed, really, really need to heed. Of course I didn't, as I have said nothing much bothers me that's in print and not happening on my doorstep. My curiosity, as it was supposed to be... was piqued, and oh yes...I read Chapter 28. Take my word for it... you may not want to read this chapter 28, or this book for that matter...at least while eating or drinking.
Beryl Seaton was the perfect protagonist, and, in the prologue, she tells us that she is ready to write her story about all the events that occurred in Grangehurst, where she once worked as a governess for the Brooks family. She goes into a flashback, to the year 1899 when she had seen an ad for a governess position. She applies and meets Doctor Elliot Brooks who was not at all impressed by her during the interview. He dismisses her for the position until she on her way out and stops to offer help to a man who has had an accident. Her quick response to the catastrophe is what now impresses Dr Brooks, and he then decides to hire her.
Arriving at the estate, Beryl realizes that it is really isolated, huge and daunting. Doctor Brooks is welcoming at first, but he suddenly changes when she starts asking questions about the "Lady of the house", and the baby she's been hired to care for. Beryl goes upstairs to meet Mrs. Brooks and at first finds her odd but then finds her more friendly as she speaks with her. Beryl is especially eager to meet the baby. When the meeting takes place, she realizes why she couldn’t hear the baby crying before. This is the first, and the beginning, of the really terrifying parts of the story...and I'm not going to say why the baby or Mrs. Brooks becomes a couple of terrifying characters. I will tell you that if you get past "this meeting", the story will have you hooked. For here on Beryl is portrayed as the woman who looks like she needs someone's sympathy and protection...because SHE DOES! Her character takes an interesting turn from this point on.
In this story, no one and nothing are as they seem. You feel the deep unsetting that surrounds the people and the house. The author instills your curiosity as Beryl checks out her surroundings. Dr. & Mrs. Brooks are not what they appear to be and as the reader you will very quickly catch on to that. There is a clever twist in chapter 3, that will leave you absolutely stunned. Again, be warned that it is very uncomfortable and much more than merely morbid, but you can use it as a test to see just how far you want or can go before you decide to close the book. From the reviews that I have read about this one...you won't be the first one to do so. In spite of all the warnings, I'm glad that I stayed.... but I really don't EVER want to read this again.
December 6, 2019
Gruesome and revolting, but also strangely gripping.
Beryl Seaton has grown up at a convent, and is setting out to create a life outside for the first time. When she gets hired as a governess to an infant at a strange house, what happens next? What is so wrong with little Stephen? What are the horrifying secrets that her employers harbour?
This book starts with a hint of unease and an atmosphere of intrigue that only gets progressively worse. An old Beryl is writing out the events of Grangehurst some 40 years later, and recounting the horrors faced by her as a naive, young girl.
The story is gripping and the much-vaunted Chapter 28 is absolutely revolting. The author spends almost all of Chapter 27 nudging you towards Chapter 28, by exhorting you to NOT read it.
The issues with this book are that the end is a bit underwhelming, and the fact that the Beryl's naivety is referred almost on each page of the book. However, I'd be lying if I said this wasn't a quick, engaging read.
Beryl Seaton has grown up at a convent, and is setting out to create a life outside for the first time. When she gets hired as a governess to an infant at a strange house, what happens next? What is so wrong with little Stephen? What are the horrifying secrets that her employers harbour?
This book starts with a hint of unease and an atmosphere of intrigue that only gets progressively worse. An old Beryl is writing out the events of Grangehurst some 40 years later, and recounting the horrors faced by her as a naive, young girl.
The story is gripping and the much-vaunted Chapter 28 is absolutely revolting. The author spends almost all of Chapter 27 nudging you towards Chapter 28, by exhorting you to NOT read it.
The issues with this book are that the end is a bit underwhelming, and the fact that the Beryl's naivety is referred almost on each page of the book. However, I'd be lying if I said this wasn't a quick, engaging read.
Want to read
January 5, 2020Unfortunately this is going to be my first "DNF" for this year and it is too bad also that it is an Amy Cross book, but I was warned from a friend that this book was messed up, so it is not like I wasn't warned.
I now see why there are up and down reviews for this book as well as it deals with some very disturbing material. Boundaries are crossed in this book and I feel that for myself I don't even want to cross over into that taboo state of mind. Now don't get me wrong, I do read extreme books which do sometimes cross into some twisted realm, but this is different compared to what I normally read in that type of horror and this book deals with some crazy psychological material that will not only twist your mind, but make you want to go check yourself into the padded room. I for one do not want to go there, but for those of you that want to explore the darker side of life be my guest.
I now see why there are up and down reviews for this book as well as it deals with some very disturbing material. Boundaries are crossed in this book and I feel that for myself I don't even want to cross over into that taboo state of mind. Now don't get me wrong, I do read extreme books which do sometimes cross into some twisted realm, but this is different compared to what I normally read in that type of horror and this book deals with some crazy psychological material that will not only twist your mind, but make you want to go check yourself into the padded room. I for one do not want to go there, but for those of you that want to explore the darker side of life be my guest.
March 6, 2025
2.5 stars
Stephen had all the potential in the world and yet repetition and lack of character building left me screaming at my kindle.
Beryl is employed as a governess by the brooks family but soon she discovers that things aren't what they seem. I loved the premise but I feel it could've been better executed. The set up of her telling her story wasn't consistent - you'd be immersed in the scene and then she'd mention something about future Beryl.
The ending was literally her going back to Grange Hurst because she needed a dominatrix, like WTF
Stephen had all the potential in the world and yet repetition and lack of character building left me screaming at my kindle.
Beryl is employed as a governess by the brooks family but soon she discovers that things aren't what they seem. I loved the premise but I feel it could've been better executed. The set up of her telling her story wasn't consistent - you'd be immersed in the scene and then she'd mention something about future Beryl.
The ending was literally her going back to Grange Hurst because she needed a dominatrix, like WTF
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2024
Meh and disgusting.
December 3, 2017
Revolting. Depraved. Twisted. Disgusting. Repulsive. Describing this book would take an entire thesaurus' roster of synonyms for corrupt, degenerate...and on and on and on.
I've read numerous horror novels. Some of them have disgusted me by their goriness. Few have sickened me as much as this one by its depravity. Its themes of not only necrophilia but also BDSM put it in a special category of horror, one I hope never to encounter again.
I am amazed at how prolific this author is. She has apparently written hundreds of books. If all of them are like this...well, be warned. I am not a prude. I am not religious. I know there are sick people in this world, but this brings "sick" to a whole new level. I don't need ideas like the ones presented here in my mind. Fortunately the extreme depravity and repulsiveness of "Chapter 28" - those who've read the book will know what I mean - is so unreal, so fantastic (in the original sense of the word) that I can dismiss it as the invention of a sick mind, the mind of Amy Cross. I will never read any of her many, many other books. I would advise readers who have any self-respect not to read any of them, either. Your time - and mine - is much better spent on novels that, at the very least, have some kind of redeeming social value, unlike this one.
I've read numerous horror novels. Some of them have disgusted me by their goriness. Few have sickened me as much as this one by its depravity. Its themes of not only necrophilia but also BDSM put it in a special category of horror, one I hope never to encounter again.
I am amazed at how prolific this author is. She has apparently written hundreds of books. If all of them are like this...well, be warned. I am not a prude. I am not religious. I know there are sick people in this world, but this brings "sick" to a whole new level. I don't need ideas like the ones presented here in my mind. Fortunately the extreme depravity and repulsiveness of "Chapter 28" - those who've read the book will know what I mean - is so unreal, so fantastic (in the original sense of the word) that I can dismiss it as the invention of a sick mind, the mind of Amy Cross. I will never read any of her many, many other books. I would advise readers who have any self-respect not to read any of them, either. Your time - and mine - is much better spent on novels that, at the very least, have some kind of redeeming social value, unlike this one.
May 2, 2022
Beryl starts working for the Brooks family, hired to help Mrs Brooks with their son, Stephen. But as soon as she gets to the house, she realises something feels... off. Then she meets Stephen, and the nightmare really begins.
I liked this book, however I think it had less of an impact because of the extreme horrors I have read. Even chapter 28, although disturbing and gross, doesn't hit the same type of graphic as Cows which made me hugely cringe!
However, for people who are not as used to extreme horror, this will be extremely disturbing and dark, and chapter 28 will make many feel ill. It's a gripping read though, with a twist near the end that brought a gasp!
I liked this book, however I think it had less of an impact because of the extreme horrors I have read. Even chapter 28, although disturbing and gross, doesn't hit the same type of graphic as Cows which made me hugely cringe!
However, for people who are not as used to extreme horror, this will be extremely disturbing and dark, and chapter 28 will make many feel ill. It's a gripping read though, with a twist near the end that brought a gasp!
Read
December 11, 2017This didn't work for me, unfortunately. I couldn't get to grips with the main character and the timeline seemed to leap about too much. It wasn't particularly 'horrific' as more.... revolting?
September 25, 2018
A dark and twisted Gothic novel. Unlike many other reviewers, I wasn't offended, or afraid. Yes, it was disgusting, depraved, repulsive, but really, it just wasn't that great. The s&m didn't shock me, there were parts that were a bit unbelievable (and gross) , but all in all this was not as bad as some reviews would have you believe. Once you get past all that, it's a solid governess goes to dark mansion and madness ensues story. This was a quick read, a bit silly in spots, but well written enough. I have never read anything by Amy Cross, and after this one, I'm not sure I will again.
November 13, 2017
Revolted, horrified and fascinated
Those were my emotions after I finished reading this book. This was an exceptional horror story, which plumbed the depth of depravity whilst, at the same time, showing how faith can overcome despair. This was the story of an extremely naïve young girl and how she found the strength of character to overcome unbearable horror and live a relatively normal life. I've never quite read anything like this before.
Those were my emotions after I finished reading this book. This was an exceptional horror story, which plumbed the depth of depravity whilst, at the same time, showing how faith can overcome despair. This was the story of an extremely naïve young girl and how she found the strength of character to overcome unbearable horror and live a relatively normal life. I've never quite read anything like this before.
February 27, 2018
Forty years after her traumatic ordeal at Grangehurst, Beryl Seaton is finally ready to relive her past and recollect the events that have haunted her every day since. As a much younger woman, Beryl is accepted to be governess in the household of Doctor Elliot Brooks, her job to help his wife take care of their only son, Stephen. But there's something terribly wrong with Stephen, and it becomes inevitable that things could only get worse.
(WARNING: This review contains spoilers.)
If I ever thought that books could go too far, then I'd more than likely say that about this particular one. It's one of those stories that heavily relies upon the shock factor; it wants you to ask the question of what-the-hell-did-I-just-read? And I did, in fact, chew over that question myself, especially after the much dreaded, yet highly anticipated chapter twenty-eight. When it comes to this novel, that chapter is rather infamous - all you have to do is glance over reviews to see the affirmed revulsion. If that wasn't enough, then Beryl's own words should certainly give you an idea:
The entirety of twenty-seven is one big forewarning, but it's obvious that its intention isn't to deter us from the next chapter; its intention is to make us want to read it all the more. The whole plot has been leading up to that moment, so what could possibly be so bad, you wonder? Well, I'm not going to include the specifics, and not because it's a spoiler, but because I simply can't bring myself to type the words. It's truly disgusting, and if you're that curious, just read it for yourself!
As for the character of Beryl, I didn't find her at all dislikeable, but the writing suffered a great deal due to her personal narrative. I get that it's a retelling of her life - or the most horrific part of her life - and that at the time of documentation she's in her seventies. She's an old woman, and I'm fully aware that the memories of elderly folk just aren't the same, but the sheer amount of repetition in this book bothered me. Beryl states again and again how her younger self is naive and gullible. Those exact same words are recycled; as if they somehow gave us new insight every time they were written. Perhaps it really was to highlight her old age, or maybe it was merely to make the overall book longer. Either way, it didn't do any favours, as after all, Beryl's lack of real-world experience was integral; nothing would've happened otherwise.
Despite the faults that irked me, I enjoyed the plot for what it was; definitely eerie, and truthful in the ugliness of the situation. Let's face it, there's nothing pleasant about a dead child, and there's doubtlessly something morbid about treating it as if it were alive and breathing. As unsettling as it is, there's been cases of it happening in real life. Such a loss can indeed affect the mind, so Severine's madness was not so far-fetched.
However, I do think that it would've been better had some aspects been removed. Beryl's masochistic tendencies were out of place, and the scene with the apparition added absolutely nothing aside from filler. Anything paranormal played such a minor part, I wondered why it was there to begin with. It's like Cross tried to cram in too many things, and ultimately they didn't quite work together. Sometimes being much more simplistic has a greater impact, and I think this one would've benefited from it.
The ending also didn't make much sense to me. Why did she seem so goddamn obsessed with Severine? I understand the need for closure, but her attitude, like she was in love with the other woman, just seemed so out of character.
In conclusion - I found it to be pretty average. I liked the premise of the plot - it was creepy - but there were issues that got in the way. I'll not be adverse to reading more of this authors work in the future, though!
Notable Quote:
"It is astonishing how one can perform mental gymnastics and persuade oneself that left is right, up is down and so forth."
© Red Lace 2018
Wordpress ~ Booklikes ~ Twitter
(WARNING: This review contains spoilers.)
If I ever thought that books could go too far, then I'd more than likely say that about this particular one. It's one of those stories that heavily relies upon the shock factor; it wants you to ask the question of what-the-hell-did-I-just-read? And I did, in fact, chew over that question myself, especially after the much dreaded, yet highly anticipated chapter twenty-eight. When it comes to this novel, that chapter is rather infamous - all you have to do is glance over reviews to see the affirmed revulsion. If that wasn't enough, then Beryl's own words should certainly give you an idea:
"Let me state this, then: I, Beryl Seaton, write the next chapter only because it is a true account of what happened. I take no pleasure in the telling of this tale, nor do I in any way recommend that anybody should read the following chapter. I shall set down the events entirely within a chapter of their own, so that any right-thinking reader can simply skip that chapter and go to the next..."
The entirety of twenty-seven is one big forewarning, but it's obvious that its intention isn't to deter us from the next chapter; its intention is to make us want to read it all the more. The whole plot has been leading up to that moment, so what could possibly be so bad, you wonder? Well, I'm not going to include the specifics, and not because it's a spoiler, but because I simply can't bring myself to type the words. It's truly disgusting, and if you're that curious, just read it for yourself!
As for the character of Beryl, I didn't find her at all dislikeable, but the writing suffered a great deal due to her personal narrative. I get that it's a retelling of her life - or the most horrific part of her life - and that at the time of documentation she's in her seventies. She's an old woman, and I'm fully aware that the memories of elderly folk just aren't the same, but the sheer amount of repetition in this book bothered me. Beryl states again and again how her younger self is naive and gullible. Those exact same words are recycled; as if they somehow gave us new insight every time they were written. Perhaps it really was to highlight her old age, or maybe it was merely to make the overall book longer. Either way, it didn't do any favours, as after all, Beryl's lack of real-world experience was integral; nothing would've happened otherwise.
Despite the faults that irked me, I enjoyed the plot for what it was; definitely eerie, and truthful in the ugliness of the situation. Let's face it, there's nothing pleasant about a dead child, and there's doubtlessly something morbid about treating it as if it were alive and breathing. As unsettling as it is, there's been cases of it happening in real life. Such a loss can indeed affect the mind, so Severine's madness was not so far-fetched.
However, I do think that it would've been better had some aspects been removed. Beryl's masochistic tendencies were out of place, and the scene with the apparition added absolutely nothing aside from filler. Anything paranormal played such a minor part, I wondered why it was there to begin with. It's like Cross tried to cram in too many things, and ultimately they didn't quite work together. Sometimes being much more simplistic has a greater impact, and I think this one would've benefited from it.
The ending also didn't make much sense to me. Why did she seem so goddamn obsessed with Severine? I understand the need for closure, but her attitude, like she was in love with the other woman, just seemed so out of character.
In conclusion - I found it to be pretty average. I liked the premise of the plot - it was creepy - but there were issues that got in the way. I'll not be adverse to reading more of this authors work in the future, though!
Notable Quote:
"It is astonishing how one can perform mental gymnastics and persuade oneself that left is right, up is down and so forth."
© Red Lace 2018
Wordpress ~ Booklikes ~ Twitter
May 5, 2022
shock factor
Bought this purely after seeing a Facebook reviewing saying “do NOT read this, it’s horrific”.
In truth it was an okay read, but the real pull is the shock factor of chapter 28. I’ve definitely read a lot of twisted / warped plot lines but that one was new! 4 stars just for coming up with something heinous that I haven’t seen before!
Bought this purely after seeing a Facebook reviewing saying “do NOT read this, it’s horrific”.
In truth it was an okay read, but the real pull is the shock factor of chapter 28. I’ve definitely read a lot of twisted / warped plot lines but that one was new! 4 stars just for coming up with something heinous that I haven’t seen before!
October 1, 2018
Amy Cross is amazing
She can cross genres so easily! Different types of horror stories flow like water from her fingertips! I often wonder if she hasn't set a goal to see how many styles that she can successfully write! And thus far I don't think there is one she cannot hold her own on. This was written like a Gothic Horror. There were some quite shocking scenes, no doubt about that! But a deep tale lies beneath!
She can cross genres so easily! Different types of horror stories flow like water from her fingertips! I often wonder if she hasn't set a goal to see how many styles that she can successfully write! And thus far I don't think there is one she cannot hold her own on. This was written like a Gothic Horror. There were some quite shocking scenes, no doubt about that! But a deep tale lies beneath!
November 16, 2017
This is one scary novel! I had to read it all but I really didn't want to... it'll take a while for these images to be forgotten. Read at your own peril....
October 8, 2018
Don't read chapter twenty eight!
This book was a free download, recommended to me by a friend.
I was warned about the typing errors, and I was also warned about chapter twenty eight!
I decided to give this book a go, mainly out of curiosity about chapter twenty eight.
I enjoyed this book a lot more than I expected to, in fact, I really liked it, despite it not being something I would normally read. Yes, there are some typing errors, but I found they didn't really bother me.
Before you even start the book, the author herself even warns you about chapter twenty eight, I found I couldn't put this book down, partly because it was so good but partly because I wanted to get to chapter twenty eight!
Beryl Seaton is a young, naive twenty year old, straight out of being raised in a convent. First time experiencing the real world. She gets a job as governess at Grangehurst, assisting Mrs Brooks in looking after her son, Stephen. But nothing is normal at Grangehurst.
How did Stephen become the way he is?
What happened to the previous governess?
And yes, chapter twenty eight is disturbing, in fact the author spends all of chapter twenty seven advising you to skip to chapter twenty nine!
I do recommend this book, but please do not be one of those people that head straight for chapter twenty eight. Please read from the beginning, meet the people, learn about them and try to understand them before you make the decision whether to read chapter twenty eight or not.
This book was a free download, recommended to me by a friend.
I was warned about the typing errors, and I was also warned about chapter twenty eight!
I decided to give this book a go, mainly out of curiosity about chapter twenty eight.
I enjoyed this book a lot more than I expected to, in fact, I really liked it, despite it not being something I would normally read. Yes, there are some typing errors, but I found they didn't really bother me.
Before you even start the book, the author herself even warns you about chapter twenty eight, I found I couldn't put this book down, partly because it was so good but partly because I wanted to get to chapter twenty eight!
Beryl Seaton is a young, naive twenty year old, straight out of being raised in a convent. First time experiencing the real world. She gets a job as governess at Grangehurst, assisting Mrs Brooks in looking after her son, Stephen. But nothing is normal at Grangehurst.
How did Stephen become the way he is?
What happened to the previous governess?
And yes, chapter twenty eight is disturbing, in fact the author spends all of chapter twenty seven advising you to skip to chapter twenty nine!
I do recommend this book, but please do not be one of those people that head straight for chapter twenty eight. Please read from the beginning, meet the people, learn about them and try to understand them before you make the decision whether to read chapter twenty eight or not.
December 14, 2024
What a weird story… not for the faint of heart! 😱 A Sound of Music horror version, perhaps 🎶🔪. It was dark, unsettling, and definitely unique. I actually enjoyed the story, though—it kept me hooked till the end! 👏📖
September 27, 2024
What the HELL did I just read!?!?
March 9, 2025
Not what I expected. Had great potential but too repetitive for me
September 29, 2024
This was actually so good. Spooky, gothic, atmospheric… also gory as hell. Not quite enough to push it to the splatterpunk genre but it was a really good horror read. I loved that there was still plot twists and info being added right up to the last page.
October 3, 2024
Although this story was horrific I also found it surprisingly interesting. Grangehurst the house that Beryl Seeton is sent to to work as a governess, holds many secrets and terrors but Beryls story is hers. Because I liked this character I read on. This is a tragic story full of horrors but overall I enjoyed this book.
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