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Canary Islands Mysteries #2
Clarissa's Warning
"Themes of conserving our past, pursuing our passions and bringing the truth to light all shine through in this thriller... this is a story readers will thoroughly enjoy." - Anthony Avila
Bank teller Claire Bennett’s life changes when she wins the lottery, and buys an ancient fixer-upper on the idyllic island of Fuerteventura.
After moving to the island’s sleepy inland village, Claire is confronted with a dark mystery. Her new home, known to the locals as the Casa Baraso, is shrouded in otherworldly superstition.
Her mystic aunt Clarissa has warned her of danger, but Claire pays no heed. Can she uncover the secret of Casa Baraso?
★★★★★ - "I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves reading mystery books."
★★★★★ - "An entertaining read."
★★★★★ - "If you love a good mystery, especially one that takes place in a haunted house and exotic locale, check out Clarissa’s Warning."
★★★★★ - "Normally, I don't read anything having to do with the supernatural, but this book pleasantly surprised me. A very entertaining, suspenseful and humorous read."
Bank teller Claire Bennett’s life changes when she wins the lottery, and buys an ancient fixer-upper on the idyllic island of Fuerteventura.
After moving to the island’s sleepy inland village, Claire is confronted with a dark mystery. Her new home, known to the locals as the Casa Baraso, is shrouded in otherworldly superstition.
Her mystic aunt Clarissa has warned her of danger, but Claire pays no heed. Can she uncover the secret of Casa Baraso?
★★★★★ - "I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves reading mystery books."
★★★★★ - "An entertaining read."
★★★★★ - "If you love a good mystery, especially one that takes place in a haunted house and exotic locale, check out Clarissa’s Warning."
★★★★★ - "Normally, I don't read anything having to do with the supernatural, but this book pleasantly surprised me. A very entertaining, suspenseful and humorous read."
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2018
33 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Isobel Blackthorn
49 books176 followersIsobel Blackthorn is an award-winning author of unique and engaging fiction. She writes across a range of genres, including dark psychological thrillers, gripping mystery novels, captivating travel fiction and hilarious dark satire. Isobel holds a PhD in Western Esotericism for her groundbreaking study of the texts of Theosophist Alice A. Bailey. Isobel carries a lifelong passion for the Canary Islands, Spain, her former home. A Londoner originally, Isobel currently lives in Spain.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
December 13, 2018
Clarissa's Warning is a new novel by Isobel Blackthorn published in 2018 by Creativia Publishing. I saw the gorgeous cover on a Facebook post and took a chance on reading someone new. Part mystery, part paranormal, this book focuses on the re-building of a beautiful but decaying island home off the coast of Africa and Spain. Claire, a middle-aged single woman who lost her mother very young has been raised by her distant father and her Aunt Clarissa, a somewhat gifted visionary. Claire fell in love with the house and developed a strong desire to restore it to greatness. After she won the lottery, Claire convinces the owner to sell her the property against his better wishes (and for close to double what it's worth), then moves to the island against her aunt's warning. It's a simple warning really... someone is out to dupe her, so don't trust anyone.
The book traces the ~6 month period from when Claire moves to the island until the semi-completion of the renovations. I won't say why the book ends before the renovations are complete... Does she die? Does the house implode? Does she sell and run away? Or does she solve the mystery and find a compromise? So many things could happen... which makes the book have a light suspense factor overall. You know something bad is gonna happen, but when will Claire be most in danger? Claire gets to know the building team members who are afraid of spirits haunting the house. She befriends the local cafe owner who's reticent to share the truth about past. And she meets a reporter / photojournalist who for the first time symbolizes potential love in her life. Is one of these people trying to harm her? Or is it something from the Great Beyond?
One of my favorite aspects of this novel is the way in which the author catalogs two things: (1) past owners of the home and (2) re-modeling and construction of the new home. Both are handled with careful detail and imagination. The building comes to life through Blackthorn's beautiful descriptions. The previous owners are frightening and empathetic. Just who owned this place and what kind of horrific thing happened to create so many near-death experiences for future owners and inhabitants? Blackthorn keeps the pages turning with curiosity and a hope for a successful venture in Claire's future.
I enjoy paranormal adventures and this was an easy yet immersive one to follow. While a few scenes scare you, others seem a bit normal in occurrence. When you add it all together, it's easy to understand why Claire would be scared but also choose to stay... at least until the major one happens where she's put in grave danger. I would not have gone back after that happened and I tend to be a stay-and-fight/protect kinda guy. When there's a mean ghost after me, I'll kick it's rear end... at least until I end up in the hospital. Then I might take a breather. Not Claire -- she wants her house back!
I'd recommend this for a wide variety audience. You need an interest or acceptance of paranormal activity, a curiosity about different cultures and the renovation process, and a love of a good story. Put all those things together and you've got a fantastic read that will show you something you probably haven't experienced -- I'm not sure many have met a ghost, to be honest, which makes this an even stronger concept to dive into. Kudos to the author for making it pop and draw me in. I bought the book a few weeks after it was published and will definitely read more from this author.
The book traces the ~6 month period from when Claire moves to the island until the semi-completion of the renovations. I won't say why the book ends before the renovations are complete... Does she die? Does the house implode? Does she sell and run away? Or does she solve the mystery and find a compromise? So many things could happen... which makes the book have a light suspense factor overall. You know something bad is gonna happen, but when will Claire be most in danger? Claire gets to know the building team members who are afraid of spirits haunting the house. She befriends the local cafe owner who's reticent to share the truth about past. And she meets a reporter / photojournalist who for the first time symbolizes potential love in her life. Is one of these people trying to harm her? Or is it something from the Great Beyond?
One of my favorite aspects of this novel is the way in which the author catalogs two things: (1) past owners of the home and (2) re-modeling and construction of the new home. Both are handled with careful detail and imagination. The building comes to life through Blackthorn's beautiful descriptions. The previous owners are frightening and empathetic. Just who owned this place and what kind of horrific thing happened to create so many near-death experiences for future owners and inhabitants? Blackthorn keeps the pages turning with curiosity and a hope for a successful venture in Claire's future.
I enjoy paranormal adventures and this was an easy yet immersive one to follow. While a few scenes scare you, others seem a bit normal in occurrence. When you add it all together, it's easy to understand why Claire would be scared but also choose to stay... at least until the major one happens where she's put in grave danger. I would not have gone back after that happened and I tend to be a stay-and-fight/protect kinda guy. When there's a mean ghost after me, I'll kick it's rear end... at least until I end up in the hospital. Then I might take a breather. Not Claire -- she wants her house back!
I'd recommend this for a wide variety audience. You need an interest or acceptance of paranormal activity, a curiosity about different cultures and the renovation process, and a love of a good story. Put all those things together and you've got a fantastic read that will show you something you probably haven't experienced -- I'm not sure many have met a ghost, to be honest, which makes this an even stronger concept to dive into. Kudos to the author for making it pop and draw me in. I bought the book a few weeks after it was published and will definitely read more from this author.
March 7, 2019
Apart from possibly the ghosts this read like a beautiful love letter to Fuerteventura. I could capture so much of the island reading this even though I've never been. I now want to. There is so much attention to detail in this book, not just with the island but the history of the house being renovated and the people linked to it. Also though the renovations themselves. You could really imagine the restoration as it happened over the time period in the book. Everything is just so beautifully written.
It's a slow burner which isn't something I normally enjoy but I think possibly because it's so descriptive I found it easy to follow and allowed myself to be swept along with the story rather than wishing it would hurry up and get to the action. Again credit goes back to the writing to be able to keep my poor attention span involved in the book.
Clare is a fighter. No matter what the ghosts do, right up until the last ghostly interaction she is determined to stay in her house and finish the works. I live next to a graveyard and have long since felt our street and surrounding ones are haunted and so like Clare would put up with a few moved objects but the minute thing start getting violent I'd be gone. Not our Clare, she just digs in deeper and I liked this element of her character. I'm also an ex-bank teller like Clare and it did make me chuckle her descriptions of that role and characteristics.
Overall really enjoyed this book and now want a trip to Spain (and the Spanish hunk) of my own....
It's a slow burner which isn't something I normally enjoy but I think possibly because it's so descriptive I found it easy to follow and allowed myself to be swept along with the story rather than wishing it would hurry up and get to the action. Again credit goes back to the writing to be able to keep my poor attention span involved in the book.
Clare is a fighter. No matter what the ghosts do, right up until the last ghostly interaction she is determined to stay in her house and finish the works. I live next to a graveyard and have long since felt our street and surrounding ones are haunted and so like Clare would put up with a few moved objects but the minute thing start getting violent I'd be gone. Not our Clare, she just digs in deeper and I liked this element of her character. I'm also an ex-bank teller like Clare and it did make me chuckle her descriptions of that role and characteristics.
Overall really enjoyed this book and now want a trip to Spain (and the Spanish hunk) of my own....
November 25, 2018
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman’s good fortunes turn dire when her dreams of owning and restoring old ruins leads to a dangerous situation in author Isobel Blackthorn’s “Clarissa’s Warning”. Here is the synopsis.
The Synopsis
PREORDER SPECIAL: $2.99 (US) / £1.99 (UK)
A lottery jackpot changes Claire Bennett’s life.
She buys an ancient stone ruin on the island of her dreams. Her mystic aunt Clarissa warns her of danger, but Claire pays no heed.
Soon after moving to the idyllic island, Claire is confronted by a mystery. As the sinister story of her home slowly uncovers, Claire enters a world of inexplicable events and ordeals. Someone or something doesn't want her there.
But is it really a curse, or is there something else behind the events?
The Review
This was the kind of classic slow burn horror story that defines the horror/thriller genre. What starts out as a mission to fulfill a dream turns into a nightmare when Claire must struggle with the distrust of the locals, tales of an ancient curse and mysterious happenings that defy logic. The story flourished under the hopeful eyes of protagonist Claire. Peeling back the layers of this well rounded character, readers will love seeing the complex relationships with her parents, her close knit bond with her aunt Clarissa, the strength of taking a leap of faith and going after her dreams, and the struggle to merge her logical, scientific mind with the supernatural/curse nature of her new home.
The setting really brought this story home however. The Canary Islands take the center stage in this tale, an inspiration from the author’s own travels and mission to bring ancient structures on these islands back to their former glory. Themes of conserving our past, pursuing our passions and bringing the truth to light all shine through in this truly incredible horror thriller.
The Verdict
Overall I loved this tale. The novel soars as a classic story of love, passion and a promise to protect the places that hold our civilization’s history within it. With a heavy focus on character development with light doses of horror and thriller elements, this is a story readers will thoroughly enjoy. Be sure to preorder your copy of Isobel Blackthorn’s “Clarissa’s Warning” today.
A woman’s good fortunes turn dire when her dreams of owning and restoring old ruins leads to a dangerous situation in author Isobel Blackthorn’s “Clarissa’s Warning”. Here is the synopsis.
The Synopsis
PREORDER SPECIAL: $2.99 (US) / £1.99 (UK)
A lottery jackpot changes Claire Bennett’s life.
She buys an ancient stone ruin on the island of her dreams. Her mystic aunt Clarissa warns her of danger, but Claire pays no heed.
Soon after moving to the idyllic island, Claire is confronted by a mystery. As the sinister story of her home slowly uncovers, Claire enters a world of inexplicable events and ordeals. Someone or something doesn't want her there.
But is it really a curse, or is there something else behind the events?
The Review
This was the kind of classic slow burn horror story that defines the horror/thriller genre. What starts out as a mission to fulfill a dream turns into a nightmare when Claire must struggle with the distrust of the locals, tales of an ancient curse and mysterious happenings that defy logic. The story flourished under the hopeful eyes of protagonist Claire. Peeling back the layers of this well rounded character, readers will love seeing the complex relationships with her parents, her close knit bond with her aunt Clarissa, the strength of taking a leap of faith and going after her dreams, and the struggle to merge her logical, scientific mind with the supernatural/curse nature of her new home.
The setting really brought this story home however. The Canary Islands take the center stage in this tale, an inspiration from the author’s own travels and mission to bring ancient structures on these islands back to their former glory. Themes of conserving our past, pursuing our passions and bringing the truth to light all shine through in this truly incredible horror thriller.
The Verdict
Overall I loved this tale. The novel soars as a classic story of love, passion and a promise to protect the places that hold our civilization’s history within it. With a heavy focus on character development with light doses of horror and thriller elements, this is a story readers will thoroughly enjoy. Be sure to preorder your copy of Isobel Blackthorn’s “Clarissa’s Warning” today.
November 24, 2018
This was a very slow paced tale where everything was described in detail. The story had Claire winning the lottery and buying the ruins in an island, going about to renovate them with workers who were weirdly reluctant. And then strange things started happening to the workers which then moved on to her, reminding her of aunt Clarissa’s astro warning.
My first book by Isabel Blackthorn, I quite liked the main character Claire though I didn’t identify or connect with her. She had her own way of doing things. She carried her grief about her mother deep in her heart, hence she was quite closed off with her emotions. She quite embodied the phrase stiff upper lip.
I liked how the author has wriggled in the supernatural creepy stuff into the story with things getting shifted, doors opening on their own, workers harmed. There was a sense of impending doom, of things gathering up to raise its storm. That spiked my interest and pages turned almost constantly till the end.
There were a few niggles, too many descriptions of every single thing diluted the main plot and the significance of the ominous warning. I didn’t really feel the horror or any kind of emotions which this book should have ideally brought if it had concentrated on Clarissa’s warning. Though Claire was closed to the idea of spirits, she did wisen up at the end. The book really became interesting at 70% though the ending could have been better.
The last line of the book was fab. I may not have been its ideal reader, but I enjoyed the parts where the main character is proactive. I would recommend this book to those who love a slow burn descriptive read with shades of mild horror. Very mild horror.
My first book by Isabel Blackthorn, I quite liked the main character Claire though I didn’t identify or connect with her. She had her own way of doing things. She carried her grief about her mother deep in her heart, hence she was quite closed off with her emotions. She quite embodied the phrase stiff upper lip.
I liked how the author has wriggled in the supernatural creepy stuff into the story with things getting shifted, doors opening on their own, workers harmed. There was a sense of impending doom, of things gathering up to raise its storm. That spiked my interest and pages turned almost constantly till the end.
There were a few niggles, too many descriptions of every single thing diluted the main plot and the significance of the ominous warning. I didn’t really feel the horror or any kind of emotions which this book should have ideally brought if it had concentrated on Clarissa’s warning. Though Claire was closed to the idea of spirits, she did wisen up at the end. The book really became interesting at 70% though the ending could have been better.
The last line of the book was fab. I may not have been its ideal reader, but I enjoyed the parts where the main character is proactive. I would recommend this book to those who love a slow burn descriptive read with shades of mild horror. Very mild horror.
August 14, 2019
I went on a tour in this book to a warm and humid place, lovely when I’m in the cold!
Claire has bought her dream home, she won the lottery, now the hard work begins. She meets Paco and a new friendship appears The builders are spooked, she is spooked and Aunt Clarissa did warn her......
The story gets spooky and dark as the house is coming along. Strange noises and happenings occur and disturb the balance of new and old lives.
Definitely recommend this, written so well and flows so good.
Updated for audiobook review
Really good listen. The story really comes to life & the history of the island just caught my imagination even more via my headphones!
Narrator was good, clear & well spoken. A nice lily to her voice.
Recommend both ways to enjoy this book
Claire has bought her dream home, she won the lottery, now the hard work begins. She meets Paco and a new friendship appears The builders are spooked, she is spooked and Aunt Clarissa did warn her......
The story gets spooky and dark as the house is coming along. Strange noises and happenings occur and disturb the balance of new and old lives.
Definitely recommend this, written so well and flows so good.
Updated for audiobook review
Really good listen. The story really comes to life & the history of the island just caught my imagination even more via my headphones!
Narrator was good, clear & well spoken. A nice lily to her voice.
Recommend both ways to enjoy this book
December 8, 2018
Things that go bump in the night
This book definitely had the wow factor for me. Lottery winner Claire announces her intention to leave England and move to the island of Fuerteventura where she intends to renovate and live in an old ruined 'mansion' style villa in a small village. Her Aunt Clarissa, a dedicated occultist, issues a warning of potential danger ahead which Claire dismisses as poppycock.
However, once work begins on her new home, she begins to wonder if her aunt was right in her assumption.
Things move around in the night, a workman is injured and the plot becomes more complex with the arrival on the scene of Paco, a photographer with an unhealthy interest in the ruined property and its former inhabitants.
As time goes by, Claire begins to feel she is not alone in the house, and the author gradually wracks up the tension as the story moves towards a conclusion I can't reveal without spoiling the story for future readers.
I definitely enjoyed the book and I will definitely be back for more of this author's work. A definite 5 stars from me.
This book definitely had the wow factor for me. Lottery winner Claire announces her intention to leave England and move to the island of Fuerteventura where she intends to renovate and live in an old ruined 'mansion' style villa in a small village. Her Aunt Clarissa, a dedicated occultist, issues a warning of potential danger ahead which Claire dismisses as poppycock.
However, once work begins on her new home, she begins to wonder if her aunt was right in her assumption.
Things move around in the night, a workman is injured and the plot becomes more complex with the arrival on the scene of Paco, a photographer with an unhealthy interest in the ruined property and its former inhabitants.
As time goes by, Claire begins to feel she is not alone in the house, and the author gradually wracks up the tension as the story moves towards a conclusion I can't reveal without spoiling the story for future readers.
I definitely enjoyed the book and I will definitely be back for more of this author's work. A definite 5 stars from me.
June 18, 2019
Clarissa’s Warning is a slow burn horror story that was intriguing and poetically descriptive. Our MC Claire struggles with the distrust of the locals, stories of an ancient curse, and mysterious happenings in the home.
Claire is a well-rounded, deep character with many layers. She endures complex relationships, struggles to wrap her scientific mind around the supernatural, and the strength to manage.
Isobel Blackthorn’s writing is very descriptive, which will intrigue some and bother others. For me, I really could visualize the setting of The Canary Islands, and it was clear the author borrowed from her own travels. While the heavy descriptions caused this book to slow down a bit, I think it created the atmosphere needed to make this horror story shine.
I recommend checking this intriguing story out!
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Rachel's Random Resources. All opinions are my own.*
Claire is a well-rounded, deep character with many layers. She endures complex relationships, struggles to wrap her scientific mind around the supernatural, and the strength to manage.
Isobel Blackthorn’s writing is very descriptive, which will intrigue some and bother others. For me, I really could visualize the setting of The Canary Islands, and it was clear the author borrowed from her own travels. While the heavy descriptions caused this book to slow down a bit, I think it created the atmosphere needed to make this horror story shine.
I recommend checking this intriguing story out!
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Rachel's Random Resources. All opinions are my own.*
March 20, 2019
This slow burner is not what I was expecting! I thought it would be some quaint tale of Claire buying up ancient stone ruin and getting it done up to live in. Instead, this gothic mystery packed a different kind of punch!
I did like Claire, winning the lottery she had the freedom to purchase the ruin she had spotted and fallen in love with. However, her Aunt Clarissa gives her a warning before she goes..see what the author did there!
The bravery she shows is immense, from giving up sticks to move somewhere where she knows nobody, to buying this ruin and then to deal with spirits who just do not want her presence there! I loved learning the backstory of the ruin in comparison to the present day story. She has so much strength and fight against these spirits, I would like to think I would do the same as Claire but I think I may have ran….and a long time ago too!
The backdrop of Fuerteventura for this story was just exquisite, with the local cafes, the volcano and the heat. All descriptions adding to this story building a wider picture of where Claire is and the history. To mix it in with the supernatural too was just delicious and cleverly done and adds a lot of tension in the book because it was so contrasting.
You feel you could be in the sunshine enjoying the sights with the vivid descriptions. I wanted the little garden that Claire started to create before it all kicked off! You can, however, keep the ruin and the darkness thank you!
This is my first read of Ms Blackthorn, but after reading this, getting a taste of her writing, I can safely say it will not be my last outing!
I did like Claire, winning the lottery she had the freedom to purchase the ruin she had spotted and fallen in love with. However, her Aunt Clarissa gives her a warning before she goes..see what the author did there!
The bravery she shows is immense, from giving up sticks to move somewhere where she knows nobody, to buying this ruin and then to deal with spirits who just do not want her presence there! I loved learning the backstory of the ruin in comparison to the present day story. She has so much strength and fight against these spirits, I would like to think I would do the same as Claire but I think I may have ran….and a long time ago too!
The backdrop of Fuerteventura for this story was just exquisite, with the local cafes, the volcano and the heat. All descriptions adding to this story building a wider picture of where Claire is and the history. To mix it in with the supernatural too was just delicious and cleverly done and adds a lot of tension in the book because it was so contrasting.
You feel you could be in the sunshine enjoying the sights with the vivid descriptions. I wanted the little garden that Claire started to create before it all kicked off! You can, however, keep the ruin and the darkness thank you!
This is my first read of Ms Blackthorn, but after reading this, getting a taste of her writing, I can safely say it will not be my last outing!
March 20, 2019
Claire Bennett has been raised by her absent father and Aunt Clarissa since her mother’s death. Clarissa is special since she has visions. Claire finds herself draw to an island and a house with a haunted past. When Claire wins the lottery she uses the money to buy the house and plans on renovating it. But Clarissa has a vision of someone is out to get Claire. Claire is initially skeptical and not willing to believe Clarissa until strange things start happening.
This is a slow building story that will draw you in with its breath taking imagery. It slowly build up the pace as you following along as Claire buys the house and starts renovating it. Once you are there then it starts adding some creep factor that gets the hairs on the back of your neck to stand up and read faster. The ending was the best part that I was not expecting.
This is a fantastic paranormal thriller. You are kept guessing at the person out to get Claire and the haunting. I’m a ghost believer and I would love t go through haunted locations. But I don’t know if I would have held out as long as Claire in her situation. Make sure to get a copy of this book to see what I mean.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
This is a slow building story that will draw you in with its breath taking imagery. It slowly build up the pace as you following along as Claire buys the house and starts renovating it. Once you are there then it starts adding some creep factor that gets the hairs on the back of your neck to stand up and read faster. The ending was the best part that I was not expecting.
This is a fantastic paranormal thriller. You are kept guessing at the person out to get Claire and the haunting. I’m a ghost believer and I would love t go through haunted locations. But I don’t know if I would have held out as long as Claire in her situation. Make sure to get a copy of this book to see what I mean.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
March 16, 2019
This was a really interesting read. The story follows Claire and her labour of love. Having holidayed in the Canary Islands when she was younger, Claire has an affinity for the islands especially Fuerteventura.
She is now a wealthy adult thanks to a lottery win and by chance sees a property for sale on the island. Not having many ties in England she takes the plunge and buys what can only be described as a ruin.
The book goes into great detail of how she goes about restoring this property, using a local builder. Whilst the building work is progressing, she discovers that her new home is considered cursed by the locals and many people will have nothing to do with it.
She is forced into doing her own investigations when she discovers things keep moving and she hears noises. Is she being targeted by a local who doesn’t like her restoration of the property or is there some more supernatural going on.
She is now a wealthy adult thanks to a lottery win and by chance sees a property for sale on the island. Not having many ties in England she takes the plunge and buys what can only be described as a ruin.
The book goes into great detail of how she goes about restoring this property, using a local builder. Whilst the building work is progressing, she discovers that her new home is considered cursed by the locals and many people will have nothing to do with it.
She is forced into doing her own investigations when she discovers things keep moving and she hears noises. Is she being targeted by a local who doesn’t like her restoration of the property or is there some more supernatural going on.
Read
March 11, 2019I'd caught wind of Clarissa's Warning and it's author, Isobel Blackthorn, on Twitter. I'd already made a mental note to add her novel to my reading list, so I was thrilled when she offered to send it along in exchange for my unbiased review. These thoughts are my own.
Clarissa's Warning follows Claire Bennet, a middle-income bank teller from Colchester who's struck the lottery and thrust into sudden wealth, on her journey to restore her dream home – a ruined mansion on Fuerteventura, one of Spain's Canary Islands. Claire's aunt, the titular Clarissa, sees omens in her stars but Claire waves her off, having no patience for such frivolity.
Straight from the outset, I was enraptured with the beautiful imagery, lush descriptions, and engaging, believable, and likeable characters. But primarily the writing, which is simply gorgeous. The descriptions of place are outstanding and vivid, from the ruin and its mutable weather to the picturesque vistas, the towns with their quaint cafés full of food I could nearly taste, the beaches and lighthouses, and the scenic overlooks fit to give me vertigo, every step took me on a photographic tour. And woven throughout, a colourful tapestry of Fuerteventura's history – and how past colonialism mirrors the modern influx of tourists and Claire's own emigration. History, local culture, and fiction dance elegantly across every page. Author Isobel Blackthorne's personal and professional life experiences – in England and the Canary Islands amongst other places – shine through in her work.
The characters come alive in their details, as Claire builds a connection to her dead mother through her favourite music (Scottish band Cocteau Twins), tries to make inroads with locals, or remains oblivious to a budding romance.
Clarissa's Warning is a classic ghost story where the mystery unrolls slowly, leaving the reader guessing until the end. There's a centuries-old haunting, gossip, local legends, and vengeful spirits. When the climax does come, it's page-turning and satisfying.
If you're looking for a fast-paced, grab-you-by-the-arse thriller, this isn't your book. This is a novel to be read for the writing. It is layered and poetic and I loved it.
I'll be snapping up more of Isobel Blackthorn's work.
Clarissa's Warning follows Claire Bennet, a middle-income bank teller from Colchester who's struck the lottery and thrust into sudden wealth, on her journey to restore her dream home – a ruined mansion on Fuerteventura, one of Spain's Canary Islands. Claire's aunt, the titular Clarissa, sees omens in her stars but Claire waves her off, having no patience for such frivolity.
Straight from the outset, I was enraptured with the beautiful imagery, lush descriptions, and engaging, believable, and likeable characters. But primarily the writing, which is simply gorgeous. The descriptions of place are outstanding and vivid, from the ruin and its mutable weather to the picturesque vistas, the towns with their quaint cafés full of food I could nearly taste, the beaches and lighthouses, and the scenic overlooks fit to give me vertigo, every step took me on a photographic tour. And woven throughout, a colourful tapestry of Fuerteventura's history – and how past colonialism mirrors the modern influx of tourists and Claire's own emigration. History, local culture, and fiction dance elegantly across every page. Author Isobel Blackthorne's personal and professional life experiences – in England and the Canary Islands amongst other places – shine through in her work.
The characters come alive in their details, as Claire builds a connection to her dead mother through her favourite music (Scottish band Cocteau Twins), tries to make inroads with locals, or remains oblivious to a budding romance.
Clarissa's Warning is a classic ghost story where the mystery unrolls slowly, leaving the reader guessing until the end. There's a centuries-old haunting, gossip, local legends, and vengeful spirits. When the climax does come, it's page-turning and satisfying.
If you're looking for a fast-paced, grab-you-by-the-arse thriller, this isn't your book. This is a novel to be read for the writing. It is layered and poetic and I loved it.
I'll be snapping up more of Isobel Blackthorn's work.
March 11, 2019
I did not have the slightest idea about the book, when I first started to read it. But, once I started, I could not stop reading it. Me being a slow reader, never bothered me in reading this book. It took me only 4 days to complete this wonderful book.
The story is part paranormal and part mystery. The story flows within 6 months after Claire, a middle-aged woman bought an age-old decaying mansion in an Island.
It was such an enjoyable read and there were two aspects that made me really interested in reading.
The history of the past owners of the house
How Claire started to re-build the mansion.
The story plot was crafted in such a way, that it obviously attracts the attention of the reader. It arouses the curiosity of the reader, and keeps them hooked on until the end.
The story also highlights the protagonist, Clair's complex connections with her parents and her aunt, which ultimately leads to the latter part of the story, where she takes a giant step in solving the problems that she faces.
Strong qualities of a woman is brought into the attention of the reader through the protagonist, Clair, because she definitely is a fighter. Her strong will-power to face life no matter how hard it becomes, shows the power of a woman. Claire's intention to protect the old mansion and her love for history is yet another aspect that proves her strength and courage.
The book unquestionably has the wow factor that thrills the reader. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves reading mystery books.
The story is part paranormal and part mystery. The story flows within 6 months after Claire, a middle-aged woman bought an age-old decaying mansion in an Island.
It was such an enjoyable read and there were two aspects that made me really interested in reading.
The history of the past owners of the house
How Claire started to re-build the mansion.
The story plot was crafted in such a way, that it obviously attracts the attention of the reader. It arouses the curiosity of the reader, and keeps them hooked on until the end.
The story also highlights the protagonist, Clair's complex connections with her parents and her aunt, which ultimately leads to the latter part of the story, where she takes a giant step in solving the problems that she faces.
Strong qualities of a woman is brought into the attention of the reader through the protagonist, Clair, because she definitely is a fighter. Her strong will-power to face life no matter how hard it becomes, shows the power of a woman. Claire's intention to protect the old mansion and her love for history is yet another aspect that proves her strength and courage.
The book unquestionably has the wow factor that thrills the reader. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves reading mystery books.
May 11, 2019
Have you ever had the experience of knowing a ghost was in your home? Was it malevolent or benign? Did it create havoc or simply reside with you, leaving you to live your life while it occupied space beside you? If you have had the experience and the ghost was benign, count your blessings. The home Claire buys on Fuerteventura, one of the Canary Islands off the coast of Morocco, is haunted. All the locals know it, and Claire is about to find out the truth of who the ghosts are and why they are there. This story is told in a kind of tourist on the island, seeing all the sights, visiting all the places, way. It makes the story more enjoyable, this tourist vision. Then again the story of the ghost is frightening from moment to moment. Who wins the battle for the home, for possession of the building? You will have to read the book to know for sure. Suffice it to say this is a fun read with a serious topic overlaid on it, with characters one could grow to love, with no major distractions, written by a wonderful writer. A REALLY FUN READ.
February 11, 2019
Clarissa’s Warning
Claire Bennett, a bank teller for twenty years wins the lottery and buys the home of her dreams. She quits her job, sells her modest home, and prepares to move to the Canary Islands when her mystic Aunt Clarissa warns her about the relocation. Unfortunately, the warning comes after the deal is closed and so Claire is on her way. I mean, who wouldn’t love a view of a volcano!
Although she is newly and incredibly rich, readers can relate to Claire who continues to be “frugal,” in her choice of apartment while her newly-purchased home is renovated. Her aunt’s warning begins to have some bite when Claire overhears a conversation that, “No local will work on it,” (the house).
Odd things that begin to happen, a flat rock falling off a shelf and a ghostly image of her mother, have Claire second guessing the warning and her decision to buy and renovate the old ruin.
Blackthorn’s writing is best described as graceful and thoughtful. Beautiful details draw the reader into the story and soon you feel as if you are on the island with Claire. Blackthorn is meticulous in the way she unfolds the story, careful not to give things away, but always leaving the reader wanting more.
When I read a book I try to pick one that will fully immerse me. I love getting lost in a book that lets me feel like I’m a part of the journey. Clarissa’s Warning does just that. It’s one of those stories that make you think about the character long after you read the last page.
Well done!
Claire Bennett, a bank teller for twenty years wins the lottery and buys the home of her dreams. She quits her job, sells her modest home, and prepares to move to the Canary Islands when her mystic Aunt Clarissa warns her about the relocation. Unfortunately, the warning comes after the deal is closed and so Claire is on her way. I mean, who wouldn’t love a view of a volcano!
Although she is newly and incredibly rich, readers can relate to Claire who continues to be “frugal,” in her choice of apartment while her newly-purchased home is renovated. Her aunt’s warning begins to have some bite when Claire overhears a conversation that, “No local will work on it,” (the house).
Odd things that begin to happen, a flat rock falling off a shelf and a ghostly image of her mother, have Claire second guessing the warning and her decision to buy and renovate the old ruin.
Blackthorn’s writing is best described as graceful and thoughtful. Beautiful details draw the reader into the story and soon you feel as if you are on the island with Claire. Blackthorn is meticulous in the way she unfolds the story, careful not to give things away, but always leaving the reader wanting more.
When I read a book I try to pick one that will fully immerse me. I love getting lost in a book that lets me feel like I’m a part of the journey. Clarissa’s Warning does just that. It’s one of those stories that make you think about the character long after you read the last page.
Well done!
March 18, 2019
I did not know what a gothic mystery was at first, but when someone explained it to me, I really wanted to read the book. A second positive point was the place where the story took place. I have never been to Fuerteventura, but the Canary Islands are special to me. I’m also fascinated by tarot, ghosts, etc. I could not wait to get on with it. A must read, it seemed.
Unfortunately I could not get into the story. For me it was to descriptive, too detailed, too much history. I could hardly find any mystery hidden under it all. It was too slow paced and I lost focus. I admit that I skipped some parts and when the creepyness seeped in, I was interested again. Sadly, it did not take long before once again, for me, it all fell flat once more.
I hate to have this feeling, because I know how much work it takes to write a book. And I more than admire the author for all the research she obviously did, but a mystery to me means more action from the start and a sense of suspense the whole way through.
I am convinced that a lot of people will love this book. I regret to say that it did nothing for me. If you are a fan of history and travel info, I recommend it. 3 stars.
Thank you, Isobel Blackthorn and Rachel’s Random Resources.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
Unfortunately I could not get into the story. For me it was to descriptive, too detailed, too much history. I could hardly find any mystery hidden under it all. It was too slow paced and I lost focus. I admit that I skipped some parts and when the creepyness seeped in, I was interested again. Sadly, it did not take long before once again, for me, it all fell flat once more.
I hate to have this feeling, because I know how much work it takes to write a book. And I more than admire the author for all the research she obviously did, but a mystery to me means more action from the start and a sense of suspense the whole way through.
I am convinced that a lot of people will love this book. I regret to say that it did nothing for me. If you are a fan of history and travel info, I recommend it. 3 stars.
Thank you, Isobel Blackthorn and Rachel’s Random Resources.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
May 17, 2019
Set in the picturesque setting of an unspoiled island, Fuerteventura – one of Spain’s Canary Islands, off the coast of Africa and Spain, the story weaves all the elements of an archplot in a masterly stroke. The story has a classical design with linear time-flow, causality, single protagonist, consistent reality, active protagonist, external conflict with the exception of the ending, which remains open. Sitting on the top of the story triangle, ‘Clarissa’s Warning’ demonstrates infinitesimal elan over its elements.
Claire Bennet, the protagonist, is a humble bank teller from Colchester who just won a lottery, bought the mansion of her dreams going against the odds, and started on her journey to rehaul it in the original form – a magnificent ruin spread over half an acre of idyllic land, surrounded by volcanoes and serrated-edged peaks. Since her mother met with an accident and died when she was seven, Claire developed an infallible and dense proximity to her aunt, Clarissa, a retired psychologist with a stellar authority in all things that belong to the realms of the supernatural. Claire father, a property dealer, had very little, if any, impact on her upbringing and the emotional signals failed to get transducted as he lacked the appropriate receptors. Clarissa, an adroit astrologer, warns Claire of impending doom if she inhabits the mansion. Clarissa shrugs off the warning and heads for the restoration project, which turns out to be the epic journey of revelations, conflicts, both inner and outer, and fluid transformations.
Claire is a willful character with a conscious desire. And she gets a chance to fulfill her desire, courtesy, the lottery-ticket. She has the capacity to fulfill her desire and is appropriately reflected by her independent decisions and strong-willed actions. She holds the cohesive bond with the readers with the glue of empathy. As the story progresses, gaps between expectations and result keep on widening, raising the conflict level and upping the potential of the climax. Placement of the crisis, along with the design, is suitable and controls length of the climax with a palpable fervor. The flashbacks are sporadic, fact-filled and meaningful; especially the flashback of Claire mother’s demise is very graphic and emotive.
The story has riveting rendition of the Fuerteventura and its history – the belly juice of a beetle that made it preferred inhabitable area of the wealthy, the captivating array of social and personal lives through the lens of colonialism, and the abundance of beauty of nature and traditions. The dialogues are crisp, colloquial and contextual.
The subtext dominates everywhere. When Claire mentions there are five routes to Tiscamanita and she had taken them all, she establishes herself as an exploratory and inquisitive person. She wants to restore a ruin is, in a subtle and indirect way, symbolic of her fierce desire to mend her broken past. Her mother’s demise was acutely untimely and the sensory imagery of her mother succumbing to torrential hemorrhage had scarred the delicate threads of childhood. Troubling memories of death and longing turned Claire into emotionally encapsulated woman who is afraid of being a part of broken relationships, hence takes pride and comfort heading alone in the highway of life. Claire’s determination is tenacious – all the spooky signals failed to make her shudder in fear as she discarded the existence of intergalactic planetary forces and of the caged and malignant occult.
Her unresolved grief, of her mother’s demise, made her inner substance resonate with the subliminal energies rather too fittingly. Prolonged and profound sense of suppression of primordial desire of erasing the past and being with her mother again, all hale and hearty, turned her physiological aura coincide with the wavelength in which supernatural operates. Sensing the opportunity, the spirits used her as a conduit to express their anguish, warn her, wreck her, take help from her, or plainly observe her.
The story navigates with the enlivened characters, each with a backstory and a brain of their own. Claire evokes reaction, mostly masked and immeasurable, from the locals, for her involvement with the restoration project, something that the native folks don’t consider a worthy activity as it had something to do with the fierce forces of the supernatural. The plot has plenty of twists and turns and the structure of scenes, tightly knitted in neatly separated chapters, is taut and spill-proof.
In the role of the building contractor, Mario offers bundles of credibility to the whole restoration project, with the paraphernalia. Gloria, the owner of the small food joint in the heart of the village, gradually gets drawn to Claire sensing the dangers that loom over her. Paco, a tall and lean man with deep-set eyes and long black hair, is a photographer who also works in his family restaurant in Caleta de Fuste. Capturing the beauty of the places by taking photos soothes his soul. He is the typical introvert boy-next-door whom Claire finds disdainful and intrusive when their eyes met first. Paco sought her attention from their first meeting and is protective, jovial and dutiful, the types who undertake any journey to protect their loved ones. Later, they were inseparable in their physical and mental worlds, drawn together by destiny-driven coincidences.
The story is studded with strong action, non-machinized expositions and arresting details of the events and milieu, all culminating in an esophagus-clunching climax with conflict reaching its zenith in a matter of few milliseconds. The anticipation of the unknown and narrative integrity keeps the conflict cocooned and growing, to burst in the final scenes with brilliantly planted and spaced expositions. In the final acts, the veiled and vilifying esoteric elements snatch away the driving seat, chase Claire to run for her life, a sprint in which she discovers the version of truth that alluded her throughout. She welcomes her own metamorphosis, and comes at terms with becoming fearless after making eye-contacts with the ever-evading reality. The light of Mafasca and the legend of Olivia Stone heightened the curiosity-quotient in this tightly-packed thriller.
Recruiting the latent energies of a scarred soul in defeating the malice play of the supernatural, Isobel Blackthorn has created a protagonist that constantly sheds layers of insecurity and vulnerability, one at a time, to expose the solid-substance she is made of.
A terrific and transforming piece of work by Isobel Blackthorn!
Claire Bennet, the protagonist, is a humble bank teller from Colchester who just won a lottery, bought the mansion of her dreams going against the odds, and started on her journey to rehaul it in the original form – a magnificent ruin spread over half an acre of idyllic land, surrounded by volcanoes and serrated-edged peaks. Since her mother met with an accident and died when she was seven, Claire developed an infallible and dense proximity to her aunt, Clarissa, a retired psychologist with a stellar authority in all things that belong to the realms of the supernatural. Claire father, a property dealer, had very little, if any, impact on her upbringing and the emotional signals failed to get transducted as he lacked the appropriate receptors. Clarissa, an adroit astrologer, warns Claire of impending doom if she inhabits the mansion. Clarissa shrugs off the warning and heads for the restoration project, which turns out to be the epic journey of revelations, conflicts, both inner and outer, and fluid transformations.
Claire is a willful character with a conscious desire. And she gets a chance to fulfill her desire, courtesy, the lottery-ticket. She has the capacity to fulfill her desire and is appropriately reflected by her independent decisions and strong-willed actions. She holds the cohesive bond with the readers with the glue of empathy. As the story progresses, gaps between expectations and result keep on widening, raising the conflict level and upping the potential of the climax. Placement of the crisis, along with the design, is suitable and controls length of the climax with a palpable fervor. The flashbacks are sporadic, fact-filled and meaningful; especially the flashback of Claire mother’s demise is very graphic and emotive.
The story has riveting rendition of the Fuerteventura and its history – the belly juice of a beetle that made it preferred inhabitable area of the wealthy, the captivating array of social and personal lives through the lens of colonialism, and the abundance of beauty of nature and traditions. The dialogues are crisp, colloquial and contextual.
The subtext dominates everywhere. When Claire mentions there are five routes to Tiscamanita and she had taken them all, she establishes herself as an exploratory and inquisitive person. She wants to restore a ruin is, in a subtle and indirect way, symbolic of her fierce desire to mend her broken past. Her mother’s demise was acutely untimely and the sensory imagery of her mother succumbing to torrential hemorrhage had scarred the delicate threads of childhood. Troubling memories of death and longing turned Claire into emotionally encapsulated woman who is afraid of being a part of broken relationships, hence takes pride and comfort heading alone in the highway of life. Claire’s determination is tenacious – all the spooky signals failed to make her shudder in fear as she discarded the existence of intergalactic planetary forces and of the caged and malignant occult.
Her unresolved grief, of her mother’s demise, made her inner substance resonate with the subliminal energies rather too fittingly. Prolonged and profound sense of suppression of primordial desire of erasing the past and being with her mother again, all hale and hearty, turned her physiological aura coincide with the wavelength in which supernatural operates. Sensing the opportunity, the spirits used her as a conduit to express their anguish, warn her, wreck her, take help from her, or plainly observe her.
The story navigates with the enlivened characters, each with a backstory and a brain of their own. Claire evokes reaction, mostly masked and immeasurable, from the locals, for her involvement with the restoration project, something that the native folks don’t consider a worthy activity as it had something to do with the fierce forces of the supernatural. The plot has plenty of twists and turns and the structure of scenes, tightly knitted in neatly separated chapters, is taut and spill-proof.
In the role of the building contractor, Mario offers bundles of credibility to the whole restoration project, with the paraphernalia. Gloria, the owner of the small food joint in the heart of the village, gradually gets drawn to Claire sensing the dangers that loom over her. Paco, a tall and lean man with deep-set eyes and long black hair, is a photographer who also works in his family restaurant in Caleta de Fuste. Capturing the beauty of the places by taking photos soothes his soul. He is the typical introvert boy-next-door whom Claire finds disdainful and intrusive when their eyes met first. Paco sought her attention from their first meeting and is protective, jovial and dutiful, the types who undertake any journey to protect their loved ones. Later, they were inseparable in their physical and mental worlds, drawn together by destiny-driven coincidences.
The story is studded with strong action, non-machinized expositions and arresting details of the events and milieu, all culminating in an esophagus-clunching climax with conflict reaching its zenith in a matter of few milliseconds. The anticipation of the unknown and narrative integrity keeps the conflict cocooned and growing, to burst in the final scenes with brilliantly planted and spaced expositions. In the final acts, the veiled and vilifying esoteric elements snatch away the driving seat, chase Claire to run for her life, a sprint in which she discovers the version of truth that alluded her throughout. She welcomes her own metamorphosis, and comes at terms with becoming fearless after making eye-contacts with the ever-evading reality. The light of Mafasca and the legend of Olivia Stone heightened the curiosity-quotient in this tightly-packed thriller.
Recruiting the latent energies of a scarred soul in defeating the malice play of the supernatural, Isobel Blackthorn has created a protagonist that constantly sheds layers of insecurity and vulnerability, one at a time, to expose the solid-substance she is made of.
A terrific and transforming piece of work by Isobel Blackthorn!
April 8, 2019
Claire Bennett, newly wealthy after winning a sweepstake, leaves her humble job as a bank teller and ventures a new path. She buys a ruin on the Isle of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, a place she’d visited often on vacations. Despite the ominous warning from her mystic Aunt Clarissa, Claire forges on with her plan.
“…YOU’LL ENDURE MUCH ISOLATION, ALONENESS, AND YOU WILL BE EXPOSED TO MUCH FEAR. BEWARE OF HIDDEN ENEMIES.”
Stubbornly, Claire ignores her aunt’s warning and leaps heart first into restoring the ruin back into the beautiful home it once was. Despite many hurdles, tenaciously, Claire undertakes a dangerous project fraught with setbacks and local rumors of a sinister history—unknowable, preternatural enemies rumored to remain in her new home. Claire’s idyllic picture starts to look rather dim. But undeterred, Claire continues with her plans, once again, ignoring other’s warnings until a chilling ghostly encounter.
“IT WAS HARD TO PROCESS, THE HEINOUS CRIME WAS ANCIENT BUT THAT DIDN’T CHANGE THE KNOWLEDGE THAT IT HAD HAPPENED… I FOUND IT HARD TO ASSIMILATE. .. DEATHS HAD OCCURRED INSIDE THOSE WALLS…”
Amid her daily trials, Claire gains a love interest, a local photographer, though love is the last thought on her mind. She also comes to grip with her past, the gruesome death of her mother as her home’s sinister history unfolds.
Clarissa’s Warning is a gothic style mystery told in the first person POV. The pace is a slow burn, kindled with each timber and stone, building toward a chilling conclusion. Mrs. Blackthorn’s writing is descriptive and detailed, painting a beautiful picture of the Canary Islands, and the ruin that unfolds into a beautiful home. If you love a good mystery, especially one that takes place in a haunted house and exotic locale, check out Clarissa’s Warning.
“…YOU’LL ENDURE MUCH ISOLATION, ALONENESS, AND YOU WILL BE EXPOSED TO MUCH FEAR. BEWARE OF HIDDEN ENEMIES.”
Stubbornly, Claire ignores her aunt’s warning and leaps heart first into restoring the ruin back into the beautiful home it once was. Despite many hurdles, tenaciously, Claire undertakes a dangerous project fraught with setbacks and local rumors of a sinister history—unknowable, preternatural enemies rumored to remain in her new home. Claire’s idyllic picture starts to look rather dim. But undeterred, Claire continues with her plans, once again, ignoring other’s warnings until a chilling ghostly encounter.
“IT WAS HARD TO PROCESS, THE HEINOUS CRIME WAS ANCIENT BUT THAT DIDN’T CHANGE THE KNOWLEDGE THAT IT HAD HAPPENED… I FOUND IT HARD TO ASSIMILATE. .. DEATHS HAD OCCURRED INSIDE THOSE WALLS…”
Amid her daily trials, Claire gains a love interest, a local photographer, though love is the last thought on her mind. She also comes to grip with her past, the gruesome death of her mother as her home’s sinister history unfolds.
Clarissa’s Warning is a gothic style mystery told in the first person POV. The pace is a slow burn, kindled with each timber and stone, building toward a chilling conclusion. Mrs. Blackthorn’s writing is descriptive and detailed, painting a beautiful picture of the Canary Islands, and the ruin that unfolds into a beautiful home. If you love a good mystery, especially one that takes place in a haunted house and exotic locale, check out Clarissa’s Warning.
January 2, 2020
A supernatural read where Claire Bennett wins the lottery and with her winnings buys an ancient stone ruin on the Island of Fuerteventura. Her aunt, Clarissa, who is believed to have mystic powers warns her of the danger of doing this. Ignoring her aunt’s warnings, she carries on with her plans, but it seems to be having difficult to find workers who will help renovate the old ruin. Strange things begin to happen and remembering her aunt’s forewarning, she begins to wonder if there could be any truth in her warnings.
This is my first book by this author. I do love a good spooky read and I really liked the sound of this book from the synopsis. I liked Claire’s character and was really pleased when she wins the lottery and becomes a woman of great means!! I loved the way that despite not having to watch the pennies, she still does! I also felt quite sorry for her at times as she had no belief in what her Aunt Clarissa had told her, but the local tradesmen obviously knew all about the old ruin and this meant she had great difficulty in getting anyone to work on it without really knowing why!
The story built up slow and steady, giving you plenty of time to take in the other parts of the story, such as Claire’s difficult relationship with her father and her relationship with her Aunt Clarissa. The supernatural part of the storyline was done really well and I did enjoy the spooky things which were happening. I loved the setting of this book, having been to two of the Canary Islands but never to Fuerteventura. The history behind the ruin and the local opinions were really interesting also. A suitably spooky story which was enough to make my hair stand on end and I did love the ending, although I won’t tell you what it is because it will definitely spoil the whole book! Would recommend!!
This is my first book by this author. I do love a good spooky read and I really liked the sound of this book from the synopsis. I liked Claire’s character and was really pleased when she wins the lottery and becomes a woman of great means!! I loved the way that despite not having to watch the pennies, she still does! I also felt quite sorry for her at times as she had no belief in what her Aunt Clarissa had told her, but the local tradesmen obviously knew all about the old ruin and this meant she had great difficulty in getting anyone to work on it without really knowing why!
The story built up slow and steady, giving you plenty of time to take in the other parts of the story, such as Claire’s difficult relationship with her father and her relationship with her Aunt Clarissa. The supernatural part of the storyline was done really well and I did enjoy the spooky things which were happening. I loved the setting of this book, having been to two of the Canary Islands but never to Fuerteventura. The history behind the ruin and the local opinions were really interesting also. A suitably spooky story which was enough to make my hair stand on end and I did love the ending, although I won’t tell you what it is because it will definitely spoil the whole book! Would recommend!!
March 19, 2019
A slow-paced and pleasant read.
We spend a few months with Claire after she wins the lottery and buys an ancient ruin on Fuerteventura. Her intention is to restore the house to its former glory and live on the idyllic island.
At first, Claire doesn't believe her occultist Aunt Clarissa's warning of danger but starts to rethink that, when she discovers the locals won't work on the building, and strange things start to happen at the site.
Her interest in the history of her future home is piqued by Paco, a local photographer, who has his own reasons for being interested in the building.
With spooky happenings, mystery, and a budding romance, alongside interesting characters, I enjoyed the overall story, but I found myself pulled out of the tale, occasionally, by the overly descriptive details of the renovation and the island. The book, at times, seemed as much a travel guide as a supernatural mystery.
We spend a few months with Claire after she wins the lottery and buys an ancient ruin on Fuerteventura. Her intention is to restore the house to its former glory and live on the idyllic island.
At first, Claire doesn't believe her occultist Aunt Clarissa's warning of danger but starts to rethink that, when she discovers the locals won't work on the building, and strange things start to happen at the site.
Her interest in the history of her future home is piqued by Paco, a local photographer, who has his own reasons for being interested in the building.
With spooky happenings, mystery, and a budding romance, alongside interesting characters, I enjoyed the overall story, but I found myself pulled out of the tale, occasionally, by the overly descriptive details of the renovation and the island. The book, at times, seemed as much a travel guide as a supernatural mystery.
April 29, 2019
Isobel Blackthorn’s Clarissa’s Warning presents us with an enticing mystery. After winning a huge sum of money, Claire Bennett purchases her own vacation island, but shortly after moving into her new abode she finds that not everything is as it seems. The island has a sinister past, and an even more sinister presence. Blackthorn has great descriptions and draws you in as Claire unpacks this compelling mystery. Great for any thriller lovers out there!
June 6, 2019
Welcome to the island of Fuertentura, sea, sand and intrigue awaits.
Meet Claire, a long time bank teller who hits it big after she wins a fortune through the lottery and is able to leave her old life to the curb. With money, a whole lot of time on her hands and a clear vision for just what to do with those two combined she embarks on a journey many of us can only dream to achieve. In returning to one of her favorite holiday spots she buys some ruins to restore and make her very own. After a warning, which truth be told who listens to those(?) Claire works on and with time it begins to prove to be too much for the ghosts which inevitably become stirred by the recontstruction.
The book is a beautifully written depiction of an island off the coast of Spain. Surrounded by sea, volcanoes, and a whole lot of open scenery the area is full of more than just people and places but a rich history and culture as well. Claire herself I found to be relatable in many aspects, whether working along side those fixing her new home or just exploring the new world around her she finds comfort her in her research and always has some piece of technology at hand.
Isobel Blackthrorn paints in amazing detail the journey of transforming a pile of rubble into a home and includes great detail with the mystery behind the hauntings. Truth be told I in ways would have liked to see a little more of the ghosts as I'm very much into supernatural and fantasy and yet at the same time I can say sometimes a little can go a long way~ In short it's definitely a great read, I could hardly find it in me to put it down.
Meet Claire, a long time bank teller who hits it big after she wins a fortune through the lottery and is able to leave her old life to the curb. With money, a whole lot of time on her hands and a clear vision for just what to do with those two combined she embarks on a journey many of us can only dream to achieve. In returning to one of her favorite holiday spots she buys some ruins to restore and make her very own. After a warning, which truth be told who listens to those(?) Claire works on and with time it begins to prove to be too much for the ghosts which inevitably become stirred by the recontstruction.
The book is a beautifully written depiction of an island off the coast of Spain. Surrounded by sea, volcanoes, and a whole lot of open scenery the area is full of more than just people and places but a rich history and culture as well. Claire herself I found to be relatable in many aspects, whether working along side those fixing her new home or just exploring the new world around her she finds comfort her in her research and always has some piece of technology at hand.
Isobel Blackthrorn paints in amazing detail the journey of transforming a pile of rubble into a home and includes great detail with the mystery behind the hauntings. Truth be told I in ways would have liked to see a little more of the ghosts as I'm very much into supernatural and fantasy and yet at the same time I can say sometimes a little can go a long way~ In short it's definitely a great read, I could hardly find it in me to put it down.
July 31, 2019
I requested a free review copy of this book through StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Claire Bennett is an Bank Clerk from Essex. A lottery winner with a passion for Fuerteventura she decides to embark on a life changing move to the island. She is going to restore a beautiful old house to it's former glory. Sounds perfect right? Well no, as hanging over her move is a warning, a foreboding and uncertain feeling from Claire's mysterious and spiritual Aunt Clarissa.
As the story unfolds their are elements of romance - there's a tough builder called Mario, and a photographer called Paco who have strong male personalities that create an enjoyable tension, that builds as the novel progresses.
The novel has a rich sense of setting, and it's a perfect Summer read, especially if, like me, you love the Canary islands. If you want a supernatural thriller with a summer setting then it really doesn't get much better than this.
And as we approach the end of the novel the house reveals n=some of it's secrets - not all - Clarissa's Warning feels like a novel that could easily link to more great books in the future, and I can't wait to read them.
Claire Bennett is an Bank Clerk from Essex. A lottery winner with a passion for Fuerteventura she decides to embark on a life changing move to the island. She is going to restore a beautiful old house to it's former glory. Sounds perfect right? Well no, as hanging over her move is a warning, a foreboding and uncertain feeling from Claire's mysterious and spiritual Aunt Clarissa.
As the story unfolds their are elements of romance - there's a tough builder called Mario, and a photographer called Paco who have strong male personalities that create an enjoyable tension, that builds as the novel progresses.
The novel has a rich sense of setting, and it's a perfect Summer read, especially if, like me, you love the Canary islands. If you want a supernatural thriller with a summer setting then it really doesn't get much better than this.
And as we approach the end of the novel the house reveals n=some of it's secrets - not all - Clarissa's Warning feels like a novel that could easily link to more great books in the future, and I can't wait to read them.
April 9, 2019
Thank you to the author and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I can’t actually remember the last time I read a ‘paranormal’ sort of book so I was really excited to be able to dive straight into this one! We start off with Claire and her fulfilling what I’m guessing is everyone’s fantasy winning the lottery, from there on we are transported to Fuerteventura.
Now I do have to say I was a bit surprised with just how much I did enjoy reading this mainly due to it being quite slow paced as the author really delves into the history and surroundings of the island, I usually prefer there to be a bit more action but I really found myself falling in love with pretty much everything and was completely sucked into the descriptions, it was like a little mini holiday in my head.
The supernatural aspect was also great as it kept the mystery going and to keep a whole lot of intrigue about the story, now as I mentioned the story itself is fairly slow paced but I really felt like it worked for this as I found myself taking my time and really trying to soak up everything. A great four and a half star read!
Rating: 4.5/5
Would I read again: Yes
Would I Recommend: Yes
Would I read another book from this author: Yes
I can’t actually remember the last time I read a ‘paranormal’ sort of book so I was really excited to be able to dive straight into this one! We start off with Claire and her fulfilling what I’m guessing is everyone’s fantasy winning the lottery, from there on we are transported to Fuerteventura.
Now I do have to say I was a bit surprised with just how much I did enjoy reading this mainly due to it being quite slow paced as the author really delves into the history and surroundings of the island, I usually prefer there to be a bit more action but I really found myself falling in love with pretty much everything and was completely sucked into the descriptions, it was like a little mini holiday in my head.
The supernatural aspect was also great as it kept the mystery going and to keep a whole lot of intrigue about the story, now as I mentioned the story itself is fairly slow paced but I really felt like it worked for this as I found myself taking my time and really trying to soak up everything. A great four and a half star read!
Rating: 4.5/5
Would I read again: Yes
Would I Recommend: Yes
Would I read another book from this author: Yes
June 4, 2019
I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for the promise of an independent review.
The only paranormal mystery I have read is "Mariana" by Susanna Kearsley which I enjoyed - several years ago. So, I was glad of the 'nudge' to read this book by Isobel Blackthorn.
The protagonist, Claire Bennett, wins the lottery. She leaves her job as a bank teller in the UK and buys an old mansion, in ruins, on the island of Fuerteventura.
Isobel provides detailed descriptions of the island, including its social and political history, topography, climate, communities and current status.
The renovation of the ruins, or rebuilding of the mansion, is also described with careful attention to detail. The characters are believable and interesting.
While the book is slow-paced and packed with description, I was pulled into the paranormal events. The reason for and explanation of the supernatural happenings are compelling. Claire's family history, along with Aunt Clarissa's warning, add intrigue.
Recommended, especially if the reader is interested in the Canary Islands.
The only paranormal mystery I have read is "Mariana" by Susanna Kearsley which I enjoyed - several years ago. So, I was glad of the 'nudge' to read this book by Isobel Blackthorn.
The protagonist, Claire Bennett, wins the lottery. She leaves her job as a bank teller in the UK and buys an old mansion, in ruins, on the island of Fuerteventura.
Isobel provides detailed descriptions of the island, including its social and political history, topography, climate, communities and current status.
The renovation of the ruins, or rebuilding of the mansion, is also described with careful attention to detail. The characters are believable and interesting.
While the book is slow-paced and packed with description, I was pulled into the paranormal events. The reason for and explanation of the supernatural happenings are compelling. Claire's family history, along with Aunt Clarissa's warning, add intrigue.
Recommended, especially if the reader is interested in the Canary Islands.
June 4, 2019
Ghosts, Grand Designs and Travel
Like all good ghost stories, Clarissa's Warning is a slow burn. Early incidents are easily dismissed by ex-bank teller Clare Bennett's rational mind but the truth inexorably builds until it is inescapable. The glorious ruin she has bought with lottery winnings on a sunny Spanish isle far from home is not free of its previous inhabitants. As Clare works to restore the house to its former glory she discovers not all the locals are pleased with her project.
Another intriguing book by Isobel Blackthorn, Clarissa's Warning has deftly drawn characters, a setting that will make you want to jump on a plane straight away, and an intriguing plot.
Like all good ghost stories, Clarissa's Warning is a slow burn. Early incidents are easily dismissed by ex-bank teller Clare Bennett's rational mind but the truth inexorably builds until it is inescapable. The glorious ruin she has bought with lottery winnings on a sunny Spanish isle far from home is not free of its previous inhabitants. As Clare works to restore the house to its former glory she discovers not all the locals are pleased with her project.
Another intriguing book by Isobel Blackthorn, Clarissa's Warning has deftly drawn characters, a setting that will make you want to jump on a plane straight away, and an intriguing plot.
April 13, 2019
As lottery winner Claire Bennett begins renovation on her beloved ruin in the Canary Islands, local superstition turns to reality when the spirits of Casa Baraso are disturbed. I found this a real page-turner, easily able to imagine the arid landscape and searing heat as work progresses, turning the building into a beautiful home. As with all good stories there is a love interest, but it’s the supernatural goings-on that grip the reader. Add to this Blackthorn’s attention to detail, love of the islands & meticulous research & you have the perfect novel, her best work yet.
March 22, 2019
Claire Bennett wins a lottery jackpot, and buys a decaying ruin on the island of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, where she has been spending her vacations for years. It's her dream, but her Aunt Clarissa,a psychic, warns that her chart projects difficulties, loneliness and isolation, and possible dangers, if she does move to Fuerteventura. Claire is not a believer in the spirit world, and now that she is wealthy, rather than a Colchester bank teller, she's determined to live her dream. Off she goes to Fuerteventura, where she rents an apartment, hires a builder, and sets to work restoring her new home.
The former owner had intended to demolish it. The builder suggests that they use the stones to build a new, modern house. Locals believe the house, called Casa Basaro, is haunted. She meets a local photographer, Paco, who loves the building too, and tells her the story of another Englishwoman, 19th century travel writer Olivia Stone. But Paco, too, interested as he is in the project, also says it's haunted, and urges her to be careful.
The stories don't alarm her. She doesn't take her Aunt Clarissa's warning seriously. When the builder, Mario, has to hire non-local men to do the work, that's just local superstition. When small rock she took from one of the damaged walls back to her apartment moves around in her apartment, she is sure she, somehow, has an intruder.
Even though, really, that doesn't make sense.
Claire is a determinedly rational woman, dealing with a situation that isn't responding to her rational approach. Strange accidents happen at the site, and when she starts sleeping there, the doors to her finished rooms, bolted from inside, nevertheless open, and furniture gets moved around. When power is connected, she experiences moments of extreme cold, and the power going on and off. Outside, strange, floating lights follow her.
Paco and the owner of the nearby cafe, Gloria, have very different stories about the history of the house.
And while Claire stays there, long-buried memories of seeing her mother die in a bus crash, when Claire was just seven, come back to her.
It's an intriguing and emotional story, and drew me in after some initial resistance. Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
The former owner had intended to demolish it. The builder suggests that they use the stones to build a new, modern house. Locals believe the house, called Casa Basaro, is haunted. She meets a local photographer, Paco, who loves the building too, and tells her the story of another Englishwoman, 19th century travel writer Olivia Stone. But Paco, too, interested as he is in the project, also says it's haunted, and urges her to be careful.
The stories don't alarm her. She doesn't take her Aunt Clarissa's warning seriously. When the builder, Mario, has to hire non-local men to do the work, that's just local superstition. When small rock she took from one of the damaged walls back to her apartment moves around in her apartment, she is sure she, somehow, has an intruder.
Even though, really, that doesn't make sense.
Claire is a determinedly rational woman, dealing with a situation that isn't responding to her rational approach. Strange accidents happen at the site, and when she starts sleeping there, the doors to her finished rooms, bolted from inside, nevertheless open, and furniture gets moved around. When power is connected, she experiences moments of extreme cold, and the power going on and off. Outside, strange, floating lights follow her.
Paco and the owner of the nearby cafe, Gloria, have very different stories about the history of the house.
And while Claire stays there, long-buried memories of seeing her mother die in a bus crash, when Claire was just seven, come back to her.
It's an intriguing and emotional story, and drew me in after some initial resistance. Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
July 9, 2019
Can a dream become a nightmare?
Claire Bennett was a career bank teller until her a lottery ticket made her a retired millionaire. She had fallen in love with a dilapidated historical property in the Canary Islands on previous visits there and her new-found wealth allowed her to purchase it. It was not a rundown house that needed repair but a long-abandoned site that needed a major restoration.
Claire was unaware that the locals considered the property cursed, until after she bought it, and refused to accept this notion even after strange occurrences began to take place during the restoration.
Clarissa’s Warning is a delightful mystery novel that readers should thoroughly enjoy. Well done, Isobel.
Claire Bennett was a career bank teller until her a lottery ticket made her a retired millionaire. She had fallen in love with a dilapidated historical property in the Canary Islands on previous visits there and her new-found wealth allowed her to purchase it. It was not a rundown house that needed repair but a long-abandoned site that needed a major restoration.
Claire was unaware that the locals considered the property cursed, until after she bought it, and refused to accept this notion even after strange occurrences began to take place during the restoration.
Clarissa’s Warning is a delightful mystery novel that readers should thoroughly enjoy. Well done, Isobel.
March 16, 2019
Claire Bennett is pretty much like anyone else until she wins a lottery. Then she is free to pursue her dreams. One dream in particular is more of an obsession. She has a fond memory of a ruin, basically a pile of rubble, near a tourist area but in a deserted area. The present owner has plans to tear it down and refuses to sell it, even to the government. Why is he so resistant?
Claire persists until she offers a dollar amount he can not refuse. Then discovers that no local workers will take on the project.
This is a ghost story. A love story. A coming into one's self story.
It is the portrait of an area and an era, along with the tragic history of a building and a community.
While this is a slow paced read, it has depth and detail and triggers imagination. It is vividly descriptive. So much deception among all the secrets and lies. What is there to gain?
What is the motive?
The ending was shocking.
Claire persists until she offers a dollar amount he can not refuse. Then discovers that no local workers will take on the project.
This is a ghost story. A love story. A coming into one's self story.
It is the portrait of an area and an era, along with the tragic history of a building and a community.
While this is a slow paced read, it has depth and detail and triggers imagination. It is vividly descriptive. So much deception among all the secrets and lies. What is there to gain?
What is the motive?
The ending was shocking.
June 19, 2019
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
My taste in books runs to mystery/suspense, historical fiction, and touches of mysticism. Clarissa’s Warning touched all three while adding a wonderful love story dedicated to the Canary Islands into the mix.
The book is very much a detailed and passionate travelogue of Fuerteventura, one of the Canary Islands and if it did nothing else, it convinced me I wanted to go and visit. If you know anything about the book, you will know that the main character, Claire, has won a lottery and buys a dilapidated relic of a house on Fuerteventura, intent on renovating.
The story is told in detail and all through reading the first half I felt as if I was sitting outside a café in the Canary Islands having a coffee and being told the story by my good friend Claire. The very realistic portrayal of the struggle she faced in attempting the renovation is interspersed with historical and cultural anecdotes that add to the storyline.
As tension mounts, the calm intimacy dissolves and a sense of urgency is very clear. Although I could put it down and come back to it for the first half to two-thirds of the book, I couldn’t put it down once the tension amped up.
I would recommend Clarissa’s Warning to anyone who enjoys a well-written story with a touch of supernatural suspense. Or to anyone even thinking of travelling to Fuerteventura!
My taste in books runs to mystery/suspense, historical fiction, and touches of mysticism. Clarissa’s Warning touched all three while adding a wonderful love story dedicated to the Canary Islands into the mix.
The book is very much a detailed and passionate travelogue of Fuerteventura, one of the Canary Islands and if it did nothing else, it convinced me I wanted to go and visit. If you know anything about the book, you will know that the main character, Claire, has won a lottery and buys a dilapidated relic of a house on Fuerteventura, intent on renovating.
The story is told in detail and all through reading the first half I felt as if I was sitting outside a café in the Canary Islands having a coffee and being told the story by my good friend Claire. The very realistic portrayal of the struggle she faced in attempting the renovation is interspersed with historical and cultural anecdotes that add to the storyline.
As tension mounts, the calm intimacy dissolves and a sense of urgency is very clear. Although I could put it down and come back to it for the first half to two-thirds of the book, I couldn’t put it down once the tension amped up.
I would recommend Clarissa’s Warning to anyone who enjoys a well-written story with a touch of supernatural suspense. Or to anyone even thinking of travelling to Fuerteventura!
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