The Secret Diary of Helen Blackstone

Secrets of Redemption

by Michele Pariza Wacek

In 1929, Helen Blackstone is forced to do the unthinkable—return to her childhood home.

A place full of secrets and lies … where her mother had gone mad.

Helen had hoped she had left those dark days behind her, but when her brother is threatened, she uncovers a shocking truth that changes everything …

Genres: Mystery, Horror, Short Stories, Fiction, Ebooks, Historical Fiction, Psychological Thriller

74 pages, ebook

Published April 17, 2018

About the author

A USA Today Bestselling, award-winning author, Michele taught herself to read at 3 years old because she wanted to write stories so badly. It took some time (and some detours) but now she does spend much of her time writing stories. Mystery stories, to be exact. They're clean and twisty, and range from psychological thrillers to cozies, with a dash of romance and supernatural thrown into the mix. If that wasn't enough, she posts lots of fun things on her blog, including short stories, puzzles, recipes and more, at MPWNovels.com.

Michele grew up in Wisconsin, (hence why all her books take place there), and currently lives there after spending nearly 30 years living in the mountains of Prescott, Arizona, with her husband and southern squirrel hunter Cassie.

When she's not writing, she's usually reading, hanging out with her dog, or watching the Food Network and imagining she's an awesome cook. (Spoiler alert, she's not. Luckily for the whole family, Mr. PW is in charge of the cooking.)

Reviews

[Bonnye Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free electronic copy of a teaser of the Secret Diary of Helen Blackstone from the author, Michele Pariza Wacek. Thank you, for sharing your work with me. I have read this work of my own volition, and this review reflects my personal opinion of This novel.

I thoroughly enjoyed this brief look into the characters and plotline of The Secret Diary of Helen Blackstone. The protagonists are likable and well defined, the plot is complex and I enjoy a book that relies on letters or diary pages to carry the plot. This is a novel I have to read in full.
Reviewed on Goodreads, Amazon, and Kobo on October 31, 2019, but not found on Barnes & Noble, BookBub, or GooglePlay.

[Chris James]

First, thank you to Michele PW for the free copy of The Secret Diary of Helen Blackstone. I enjoyed this book. It's pace was uneven, but that only added to the tension. Not once was the reader able to feel anything but the oppression found in a wonderfully gothic tale. The fine line between possession and madness was taunt, and though discussed little, it was very much it's own character. The outcome was not what I expected, but one I most definitely appreciated. However, I couldn't help but secretly wish for the story to have tormented me just a little bit longer.

[ThatReader · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a fast read, the story being a good one and not long at all. It does give you a hint of what's to come in the series, and gets you interested in learning where this is all leading to. It's well written, but I felt it lacked a bit of ambient, mood, to really keep me on the edge of my seat. Overall, it was a really entertaining read.

[Ainee Beland · Rating 4 out of 5]

It reads like a Vampire’s diary; that of Bram Stoker is what came to mind when I began reading, I could not help but think of Dracula but comes to find that it is a story of a witch's revenge on the family that cheated her family out of their land…so she cursed them.
There is Gertrude and Cook who have been keeping the house running all the years, and Gertrude believes that the house is haunted; Gertrude insisted that demons and possession were being done and that they should do an exorcism…to rid out the evil.

Helen does not believe in any of that; she’s more of a scientific mind and she can accept madness in the family gene. She remembered that Gertrude, Cook, and Nellie all lived in the house as well; they lived in the attic which is where she found the locket hidden underneath the floorboards; she gives the locket to Henry to wear for protection and he immediately starts to feel better and with this decision to send Henry away and to live with Aunt Esther while Helen will remain and care for Father in the house. Helen told Henry to keep the locket, wearing it under his shirt, and when he no longer needs it for protection to make sure that it is returned.

Helen made the sacrifice for his younger brother to stay in the house knowing that it is cursed and doomed to the very end; she can’t ever marry nor have a life outside of the house and this is what she promised to do and stayed to start her new life.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

must read !

I love the Secrets of Redemption series as well as the Charlie Kingsley Mystereries ! I love how everything just ties together. I really enjoyed reading this because you get to learn more about Helen's story, which we didn't know to much about before. I wish it was just a tad longer. I'm not a big fan of novellas because I get so into the story and the characters I don't want it to end. I will always recommend the entire Secrets of Redemption series, The Charlie Kingsley Mysteries, as well as all the stand-alone books. Really, they aren't really stand-alone because, like i stated previously, most everything ties all together. I think there are a few that have different storylines, I haven't read those yet, I'm sure they are just as good! If you love cozy mysteries with a little bit of supernatural twists, these books should be right up your alley! I recommend starting with The Secrets of Redemtion series first, then reading the Charlie Kingsley Mysteries.

[CHud · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a prequel to another book. I selected this read as I felt it would be a dark and eerie read for just before Halloween. I was right!

Set in the past, Helen had been working in another town. When her younger brother returns home from boarding school Helen's father requires her to return home to live in an older residence that they lived in prior to her mother going insane, committing murder and then suicide. Shortly after his return her brother becomes deathly ill. One trusted servant claims he is possessed and needs and exorcism. Another claims he has gone mad like his mother did and it is due to a family curse. Meanwhile Helen has vivid dreams in which her insane mother gives her cryptic messages of what should be done. What will Helen do and what effect will it all have on her and her family?

[Michele Wacek]

Is it madness? Or something even worse ...

Get started with this prequel to the award-winning Secrets of Redemption series, now available for free on all the major retailers.

Direct: https://mpwnovels.com
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3slrH9C
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/id160...
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-...
Kobo (and Kobo Plus): https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
GooglePlay: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...

[Carolyn Vandine West · Rating 3 out of 5]

Poor Helen is going back home to the house that drove her mother mad.
Her father is very distant and demands that her brother and she stay out of the cellar.
Her brother is very ill and Helen is having visions of her mother telling Helen to care for him.
There were a lot of storylines for the length of the novella.
I’m not sure I will continue with the series or not.
I received an ARC from the author. My voluntary review is unbiased and totally my opinion.

[Kayla (IG: kaylasbookgram) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I guess I didn’t realize this was part of a series not sure if it should be read in the beginning end or middle? Doesn’t emphasize on that. I found the book interesting though and it got me interested so I may just have to start the series. Was an extremely fast read (read within 2hours)

[Teresa Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

This book was short, sweet, made sense without a bunch of unnecessary fluff, and very good. Its been a while that I have read a 5 star but this one was definitely a 5 for me.

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was over way too soon. I want more! Hoping to read more of the series.

[BloggerNextDior · Rating 3 out of 5]

*** This review was originally published on TheBloggerNextDior.com ***

Pages: 76
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

This novella takes place in 1929, the year that my grandmother was born, so it made visualizing the setting a bit difficult. To be honest, history was always my least liked subject in school and often I will pass over books if the story takes place any earlier than the 1970s. However, I decided to read this book for 3 reasons:

I’m new to all the literary terms and wasn’t sure what a novella really was.
The Kindle version was free and it’s hard for me to pass up free eBooks.
It’s the prequel to a 9 part book series and one of my reading challenges for 2024 is to complete two book series in their entirety. I decided that the Secrets of Redemption series would be my mystery/thriller series for 2024. I will speak more about my romance series choice in a future blog post.

I really enjoyed the diary entries within the story. I’m always a sucker for this in books because I’ve kept journals since the 4th grade. I feel like journals and diaries are the only place one is allowed complete freedom over their thoughts and the ability to truly express yourself.

The novella was well written even with my limited ability to visualize the time period. I read this at night after my daughter went to sleep and the “creep” factor was definitely there. I may have had to turn on a light and play jazz music in the background to ground me lol! If you ever watched Stephen King’s “Thinner” then you’ll know exactly where I’m coming from.

Another interesting point in the book was Helen’s relentless obligation to her family as a woman. Of course during the 1920’s this was to be expected but it really brought home just how ingrained this societal pressure still exists in 2024. It makes me wonder just how many more generations of women will suffer from this. I assume quite a bit more since it benefits those in power (a.k.a. men).

I only gave it 3 out of 5 stars because it lacked a “WOW” factor for me. There was nothing about it that encouraged me to recommend it to others. I also would have liked just a bit more background on James and Helen’s knowing of each other. I do look forward to reading the next book in the series, “It Began With a Lie,” and actually purchased the Kindle version for only 99 cents! Can’t wait to report back with an update!

[Grace Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story is placed in 1929 with a collection of entries from the diary of Helen Blackstone. She is forced to do exactly what she doesn’t want to- return to her childhood home. A house full of secrets, lies, and the place where her mother went mad. Helen thought all of that was behind her but, after a bunch of strange events start to take place, she is forced to uncover a bunch of truths about her house and family.

•

“Think of Henry, I told myself. He’s worth it. But, in that moment, in the hollow pit of my stomach, it didn’t feel like enough. I could see my empty and lonely life unfold in front of me, devoid of the happy laughter of children, the love of a man. I felt my fist clench. In that moment, I hated Father and what he had done to us. To me. Not that it mattered. There was no going back now. I made a commitment and I would honor that commitment. …I took a step back, and shut the door firmly in his shocked and hurt face. And I started my new life.”

•

This was another short read, at around 60 pages. I’m excited to see where this series goes after everything that was uncovered from Helen’s diaries. I loved the aspect of every chapter being a new diary entry. It added a level of personality that would’ve otherwise been a bit harder to achieve.

I went back and forth so much with what I thought the big secret was but I can honestly say when it was finally uncovered it was nothing like what I was expecting.

[Lexxi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short story started out really well. I enjoyed getting more backstory on the house and Mad Martha. It was only touched on but I appreciated finding out the origin of the evil/entity in the house. The ending was abrupt and felt like it didn't resolve much. And the misspelling of "barley-contained anger" did make me giggle :)

[Holly Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book and it is the first time reading this author. Helen is returning home to her father and her old home. Her brother, acting quite odd, is returning home from school at the same time.

Having been given a diary, she decides she may as well chronicle her life and thus the diary. It is clearly written and is a intense, quick read.

[Samantha Carter · Rating 2 out of 5]

This novella felt pointless. There were maybe two paragraphs of new information relevant to the story, and the rest was practically copied and pasted from It Began with a Lie, with only the names changed.

[Amber · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

Short, fast paced and interesting read. I didn’t realize it was part of a series when I agreed to review it. Will definitely go back and check out the series.

[Brandie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did not realize this is a prequel to a series so when it abruptly ended I was confused. I enjoyed the time period and plot but unsure if I’ll read the series.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Michele Pariza Wacek's The Secret Diary of Helen Blackstone takes readers on a gripping journey back to 1929, a time when returning to one's roots could unravel the darkest of family secrets. The novel centers on Helen Blackstone, who is reluctantly drawn back to her childhood home, a place steeped in mystery and marred by the madness that claimed her mother.

Wacek skillfully sets the stage for a tale of suspense and intrigue. Helen's return is not a simple homecoming; it is fraught with the emotional baggage of a tumultuous past. As she confronts the memories and the people she thought she had left behind, the tension is palpable. The atmosphere of the house, described with a haunting clarity, becomes almost a character in itself, embodying the secrets it holds.

The heart of the novel lies in the shocking truths Helen uncovers. When her brother is threatened, Helen's protective instincts lead her down a path of revelation. The layers of deception and the family's hidden past are unveiled in a manner that keeps the reader guessing. Wacek's narrative is adept at maintaining suspense, making the novel a page-turner from start to finish.

Helen Blackstone is a compelling protagonist. Her resilience and determination are evident as she navigates through the lies and madness that have plagued her family. The psychological depth Wacek gives to Helen adds a rich layer to the story, allowing readers to empathize with her struggles and triumphs.

In conclusion, The Secret Diary of Helen Blackstone is a masterfully written mystery that delves into the complexities of family, secrets, and the past's inescapable grip. Michele Pariza Wacek has created a captivating story that will leave readers eagerly turning pages and pondering the thin line between truth and madness long after the final chapter.

[Janell Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a really quick read and I enjoyed it! I was disappointed it ended so quickly! Helen’s two weeks of diary entries are fun to read and the Cook and Gertrude are wonderful additions to the story line. A great, easy read mystery! Also, at the end of the book is a wonderful “Sneak Peek” of “It Began With a Lie”, it looks like one I will want to read!-Janell

The Secret Diary of Helen Blackstone begins in May of 1929, with Helen being given the gift of a leather journal on the train platform. She does not want a journal. Her Mother wrote in a journal—until she went mad.

Helen is being picked up at the train station by her Father. He looks small. They are waiting for her bother, Edward. He wants to be called Henry now, their Dad continues to call him Edward instead.

Where is the car? Why is Father driving them home in a carriage with paint peeling and plow horses? Wait! Why is Father going to this house, this house where Mother went Mad? People in town call this “The Mad House”. Helen thought Dad had sold this house? Why is Father so stern that they do not go into the cellar?

Helen sees her Mother in her nightmare. Why is she saying Henry must be protected? Protected from what? He is in danger. Helen is feeling uneasy, is happy to see Cook and Gertrude, she has missed them.

Helen keeps writing in her diary, even though she didn’t want a diary.

Henry begins sleepwalking-what is he talking about? If he can’t find it, he’ll be punished? Is their house haunted? Is their Mother talking to them through their nightmares?

[Tony Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/26/1929, Gertrude helped Helen Blackstone strip off Edward Henry Jr.’s bloody nightshirt, clean/bandage him, before changing the sheets. We then tucked him into a clean bed. Helen stayed with him, trying to keep him cool & tried not to think about what happened.
Cook watched Helen eat, before she spoke to her again.
Nellie (maid) was stabbed to death.
Wife/mother thinks we need an exorcism.

What happened to wife/mother?

I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.

An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written murder mystery book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. It wasn’t as creepy as I hoped so I will only rate it at 3/5 stars.

Thank you for the free author; BookFunnel; OddlyBooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quick, but very captivating read that reminded me a great deal of the gripping horror writers of old. As gothic and open ended as the best of its class, I would still love to see a sequel that further delves into Helen’s future confinement and familial abandonment to her fate. Just as she is bound to her vow, so is the reader to her plight – well written and creepingly invasive, it is best to cede control of your imagination to blindly follow her entries. There are many serial points here that could be deftly developed by Wacek, who is a sinfully sinuous storyteller…let her gracefully lead you and hope for more to come. But if you do not appreciate the gothic atmosphere, then turn to more direct, less molten narrative.

[Ruth McDaniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I must say, while I do love the Secrets of Redemption series, this little backstory of Helen Blackstone wasn't all that.
It was definitely short and I don't mind that, except in this case, it was too short. It could've used a little more explanation for certain things....for example the locket while it does show up in the first Redemption book, it still gives no explanation as to what it means, or what it does (like how did it bring about a healing????) What is it's importance? Where does it's power come from? I was disappointed to have gotten no word on any of these things.
Hmm. While it was ok, it was definitely not great.

[Jayne Southern · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an e-copy of this book as part of a read-and-review agreement and I am woefully late in posting the review. (Couldn't find the book on Amazon and then forgot ...) The premiss was intriguing but I can't help feeling that with not too much more effort, greater depth and delivery might have been enjoyed. Also, it is too short to truly get into stride. It is however an interesting read and worth giving it a go.

[Carol Nauss · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an enticing beginning to a series! Helen is called back home as is her brother, Henry, to the house where their mother went mad. Told through the entries in Helen's diary, the reader is left to wonder whether the house is a place where madness is inevitable or is it a haven where evil exists.
I loved the plot, writing and the psychological aspects conveyed in the book. I look forward to reading more books in the Redemption series.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Diary of Helen Blackstone by Michele Pariza Wacek is a short story or novella which is quite entertainig to read. Helen returns home to a house where here nightmares were born. Her brother also returns home and what's going on with him and their father is a puzzle to Helen. What awaits is a life changing decision. Quite an interesting read.

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic chilling novel that kept me on the edge of my seat. This authors detail is to be applauded! I read this in a sitting and couldn’t put it down. Thank you good reads for my copy in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are mine alone. Can’t wait to read more books by this author! A must read!

[Annemarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an excellent introduction to a series. Edward is lucky that his older sister loved him so much. I can't say I think much of their father. This whole situation is the fault of his greedy actions all those years ago and his wife, and now his daughter, are the ones to pay the price.
I am really looking forward to reading this series.

[Quanita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love books written like diary entries. This story did not disappoint. It reads like gothic horror. A house cursed because of the acts of the owner many years ago. Under a hundred pages, a tight story line. I was gifted this from the author.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short, suspense/mystery that can be read in one sitting. There were some questions left unanswered but then I found that this isn't the first book so that's probably a good reason, right? (Duh) 🙄 Recommend for anyone who wants a good, quick mystery.

4 stars. Clean.