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HIDDEN
A birth. A death. Hidden for a hundred years.From the author of Kindle bestsellers THE MEMORY TREE and HOUSE OF SILENCE“Lady, fiancé killed, will gladly marry officer totally blinded or otherwise incapacitated by the war.”In 1917 a sense of duty and a desire for a child lead celebrated artist Esme Howard to share her life and home – 16th-century Myddleton Mote – with Captain Guy Carlyle, an officer whose face and body have been ravaged by war. But Esme knows nothing of the ugliness that lurks within Guy’s tortured mind, as he re-lives the horrors of the trenches. As a child grows within her, Esme fears Guy’s wrath will be turned on them both. A prisoner in her own home, she paints like one possessed, trusting that one day someone will hear her silent cries for help.A century later, Miranda Norton inherits Myddleton Mote and its art collection from a father she never knew and decides to move on after the end of an unhappy marriage. Inviting her extended family to join her, Miranda sets about restoring the house and turning it into a thriving business. When someone from Miranda’s past returns to torment her, an appalling act of vandalism reveals the Mote’s dark secrets, hidden for a hundred years.Praise for HIDDEN "An ancient moated house, a shell-shocked war hero, a female artist caught between the desire to honour her husband's sacrifice and her own free spirit - the ingredients for a page-turning read. Linda Gillard always delivers."CLARE FLYNN, author of The Gamekeeper’s Wife and The Pearl of Penang.“A powerful and atmospheric dual-time story. The way the secrets of the past and the central mystery are resolved had me breathless. So original, quite unexpected, the pages turning faster and faster, the ending wholly satisfying… HIDDEN is story-telling at its very best. I loved every moment.” ANNE WILLIAMS, Being Anne book blog~Praise for Linda Gillard's other novels"The emotional power in these novels makes this reviewer reflect on how Charlotte and Emily Brontë might have written if they were living and writing now." NORTHWORDS NOW"STAR GAZING was a joy to read from the first page to the last... Romantic and quirky and beautifully written." www.lovereading.co.uk"HOUSE OF SILENCE is one of those books you'll put everything else on hold for." CORNFLOWER BOOKS blogEMOTIONAL GEOLOGY - "A love story filled with passion and paint-stripping honesty." HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS ARTS JOURNAL
- GenresHistorical Fiction
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2020
67 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Linda Gillard
19 books284 followersLinda Gillard lives in North Lanarkshire, Scotland and has been an actress, journalist and teacher. She’s the author of ten novels, including STAR GAZING, shortlisted in 2009 for "Romantic Novel of the Year" and the Robin Jenkins Literary Award, for writing that promotes the Scottish landscape.
HOUSE OF SILENCE and THE MEMORY TREE became Kindle bestsellers.
HOUSE OF SILENCE and THE MEMORY TREE became Kindle bestsellers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 17, 2021
After the death of her fiancé in the war, along with her two brothers, well known artist, Esme Howard decided to marry a man who’d been injured in the war with the view to having children. Little did she know Guy Carlyle was mentally affected by the war, and although his visible injuries were severe, his mental trauma was much worse. As their life together in Esme’s home, Myddleton Mote, became more untenable, Esme continued to frantically paint, trying to ease her torment at being locked away by her husband.
One hundred years on, Miranda Norton inherited Myddleton Mote and moved in to the ramshackle and run-down 16th century home with her family. Her mother Kay, daughter Stella and her husband Marcus, and Miranda’s twin sons, Charley and Leo made up the cosy family dwelling. But renovating cost money, so Myddleton Mote was opened to visitors where they viewed the artwork painted by that long ago artist. It was when the moat was drained for repairs that a skeleton appeared – how long had it been there? Would the skeleton reveal secrets about the long ago past?
Hidden by Linda Gillard is my second by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Set in two time frames – 1917 with the intrigue of Esme’s life and what she was prepared to do; the horrors of Guy’s life and how he coped (or didn’t). And then the current day events, with veiled threats, a broken marriage and vandalism, all culminating in a heartwarming, satisfying ending. Highly recommended.
One hundred years on, Miranda Norton inherited Myddleton Mote and moved in to the ramshackle and run-down 16th century home with her family. Her mother Kay, daughter Stella and her husband Marcus, and Miranda’s twin sons, Charley and Leo made up the cosy family dwelling. But renovating cost money, so Myddleton Mote was opened to visitors where they viewed the artwork painted by that long ago artist. It was when the moat was drained for repairs that a skeleton appeared – how long had it been there? Would the skeleton reveal secrets about the long ago past?
Hidden by Linda Gillard is my second by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Set in two time frames – 1917 with the intrigue of Esme’s life and what she was prepared to do; the horrors of Guy’s life and how he coped (or didn’t). And then the current day events, with veiled threats, a broken marriage and vandalism, all culminating in a heartwarming, satisfying ending. Highly recommended.
November 15, 2021
Simply wonderful!
Esme has lost her brothers and her fiancé during The Great War but she takes the selfless – albeit naïve – step to enter into a marriage with a wounded soldier who might otherwise have no family to support him. An advertisement sees her meet with Guy Carlyle, a Captain whose mind and face has been ravaged by life in the trenches and for whom the horror of being buried alive will continue to torment and warp his mind.
Esme has no idea what to expect but hopes to, one day, raise a family with the Captain and lead a happier life at Myddleton Mote, her family home. As an artist, she enjoys creating portraits, receiving models to sit for her so she can complete her Painted Ladies series.
As the Captain becomes ever more obsessed and deranged, imagining invasions and attacks where there are none, Esme soon realises a family life with him will not be possible. She retreats into her art and produces a series worthy of an exhibition in London. By now, Guy is consumed by thoughts of a German invasion, and he can’t abide any noise or disturbance particularly as he keeps watch at all hours. He has forbidden Esme to receive visitors, to send letters without his approval and has cut the telephone lead. Going to London is Esme’s only chance of meeting with her agent and fellow art lovers and she is determined not to miss the opportunity.
The exhibition is a huge success; Esme’s paintings are much admired and sell well. She has created each one from her own image as a result of not being allowed models or visitors. Her determination to paint and complete her series really has become the focus of her life. Regardless of her husband, she will paint and she will share her work with the art world.
In London, Esme’s finds more than the joy of selling her work, she finds the love she craves and which nourishes her soul, allowing her to better tolerate Guy’s behaviour. She finally has hope that there’s a better future for her. (Sorry, no spoilers here)
Esme’s story is bookended by a modern-day story. The owner of Myddleton Mote, an actor, has died, leaving the house to a daughter who never knew of him as her father. Miranda Norton has herself escaped an abusive marriage and moves her family into the Mote which houses her father’s art collection – the Painted Ladies by Esme Howard (Carlyle). Miranda’s family hosts tours and murder mystery events, and during their preparations find the priesthole and a haunting message scrawled on the wall, announcing the birth of Artemisia one hundred years earlier. The discovery piques Miranda’s interest and leads to her unravelling clues left by Esme about her life, drawing uncanny parallels with Miranda’s.
Esme’s story is powerful, captivating and all-engrossing. The more Miranda learns, the more she understands how to take control of her own life and her toxic ex-husband. As I said at the start, I’ve read lots of historical fiction but the enemy has always been clear. I don’t think I’ve read anything so absorbing. The author presents a story so eloquent in portraying the terrors of the mind and how shell shock (as it was then deemed) can change a person so thoroughly and completely.
Hidden is a gripping story; I raced through it keen to see what happened whilst also not wanting it to end. A character-driven story with people so real you can feel every breath. I can’t wait to read more by this author.
Esme has lost her brothers and her fiancé during The Great War but she takes the selfless – albeit naïve – step to enter into a marriage with a wounded soldier who might otherwise have no family to support him. An advertisement sees her meet with Guy Carlyle, a Captain whose mind and face has been ravaged by life in the trenches and for whom the horror of being buried alive will continue to torment and warp his mind.
Esme has no idea what to expect but hopes to, one day, raise a family with the Captain and lead a happier life at Myddleton Mote, her family home. As an artist, she enjoys creating portraits, receiving models to sit for her so she can complete her Painted Ladies series.
As the Captain becomes ever more obsessed and deranged, imagining invasions and attacks where there are none, Esme soon realises a family life with him will not be possible. She retreats into her art and produces a series worthy of an exhibition in London. By now, Guy is consumed by thoughts of a German invasion, and he can’t abide any noise or disturbance particularly as he keeps watch at all hours. He has forbidden Esme to receive visitors, to send letters without his approval and has cut the telephone lead. Going to London is Esme’s only chance of meeting with her agent and fellow art lovers and she is determined not to miss the opportunity.
The exhibition is a huge success; Esme’s paintings are much admired and sell well. She has created each one from her own image as a result of not being allowed models or visitors. Her determination to paint and complete her series really has become the focus of her life. Regardless of her husband, she will paint and she will share her work with the art world.
In London, Esme’s finds more than the joy of selling her work, she finds the love she craves and which nourishes her soul, allowing her to better tolerate Guy’s behaviour. She finally has hope that there’s a better future for her. (Sorry, no spoilers here)
Esme’s story is bookended by a modern-day story. The owner of Myddleton Mote, an actor, has died, leaving the house to a daughter who never knew of him as her father. Miranda Norton has herself escaped an abusive marriage and moves her family into the Mote which houses her father’s art collection – the Painted Ladies by Esme Howard (Carlyle). Miranda’s family hosts tours and murder mystery events, and during their preparations find the priesthole and a haunting message scrawled on the wall, announcing the birth of Artemisia one hundred years earlier. The discovery piques Miranda’s interest and leads to her unravelling clues left by Esme about her life, drawing uncanny parallels with Miranda’s.
Esme’s story is powerful, captivating and all-engrossing. The more Miranda learns, the more she understands how to take control of her own life and her toxic ex-husband. As I said at the start, I’ve read lots of historical fiction but the enemy has always been clear. I don’t think I’ve read anything so absorbing. The author presents a story so eloquent in portraying the terrors of the mind and how shell shock (as it was then deemed) can change a person so thoroughly and completely.
Hidden is a gripping story; I raced through it keen to see what happened whilst also not wanting it to end. A character-driven story with people so real you can feel every breath. I can’t wait to read more by this author.
February 7, 2020
Brilliant and very moving
Linda has done it again with a story set 2 different times, focusing on 2 women who have trying times in their marriages, and are both connected to the same house. The stories include a sympathetic, yet stark, description of life with someone suffering from the consequences of the First World War. The interwoven story of the current owner of the house shows another strong woman dealing with difficult circumstances. The love shown to both women is uplifting. Yet again I had to read it quickly as I found it very difficult to put down.
Linda has done it again with a story set 2 different times, focusing on 2 women who have trying times in their marriages, and are both connected to the same house. The stories include a sympathetic, yet stark, description of life with someone suffering from the consequences of the First World War. The interwoven story of the current owner of the house shows another strong woman dealing with difficult circumstances. The love shown to both women is uplifting. Yet again I had to read it quickly as I found it very difficult to put down.
March 8, 2021
This was a fascinating story, of duty, obligation, love, domestic abuse and family. It wasn't an easy read. There some evenings where what I was reading made it difficult to get to sleep. The atmosphere created in the story was tense, and haunting. I like dual-timeline stories anyway (think Victoria Hislop, Kate Morton) but I know they're not everyone's cup of tea. This was worth the read though.
July 14, 2020
"Lady, fiancé killed, will gladly marry officer totally blinded or otherwise incapacitated by the war.”
The lady being Esme Howard and the war being WWI, thus begins a story that will end in tragedy.
We also have a modern day story in which Miranda Norton inherits an old house called Myddleton Mote and together with her family they work out what happened in the past.
As always, Linda Gillard writes beautifully and the characters are well-drawn. I couldn't put it down.
4.5 stars.
The lady being Esme Howard and the war being WWI, thus begins a story that will end in tragedy.
We also have a modern day story in which Miranda Norton inherits an old house called Myddleton Mote and together with her family they work out what happened in the past.
As always, Linda Gillard writes beautifully and the characters are well-drawn. I couldn't put it down.
4.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2021
Hidden is a time-shifting book that leaves the reader guessing the outcome to the very end.
When the father she never knew dies, Miranda Norton inherits his sixteenth century house – and the art collection within – called Myddleton Mote. Recently divorced from an overbearing and brutish husband, she finds herself at a crossroads in her life and decides to move on and live in the house. She invites her extended family to join her and together they begin a restoration and modernization to try making a business of house tours and events. When the ex-husband returns to bully her and vandalizes some of the artwork, Miranda discovers a secret held by the house for a hundred years.
Celebrated artist Esme Howard lived in Myddleton Mote in 1917. With her fiancé killed in the war, still wanting to be loved and have a child, and with a sense of duty, she advertises in a newspaper: “Lady, fiancé killed, will gladly marry officer totally blinded or otherwise incapacitated by the war.”
She meets a suitable responder, Captain Guy Carlyle, an officer whose face and body have been severely damaged in the war, and they decide to marry. Unfortunately, Esme is unaware of the tortured mind of her new husband, who suffers from what would now be called extreme post-traumatic stress syndrome. He daily relives the horrors of war in the trenches with increasing paranoia, screaming nightmares, and deep-seated suspicion of his new wife. Soon Esme realizes there will never be a child, something Guy did not tell her. Esme finds comfort in the company of the local physician and after one night of unexpected passion, finds herself pregnant. As the child grows within her, Guy’s wrath turns on her and she becomes locked by him in her own home. Her response is to paint a series of works, within which she places her cries for help, hoping that one day someone will find them. That person is Miranda.
This is a cleverly devised story that captures the reader from the start. The house is not only a setting but also a character unto itself with its incredible atmosphere. Those that inhabit it project true emotions that lend reality to the story. The author deals with Guy’s descent into the madness of his PTSD with unblinking authenticity and pathos. Nevertheless, despite the heavy emotional matter, the author draws all the threads of the story to a satisfying, if sad, ending.
When the father she never knew dies, Miranda Norton inherits his sixteenth century house – and the art collection within – called Myddleton Mote. Recently divorced from an overbearing and brutish husband, she finds herself at a crossroads in her life and decides to move on and live in the house. She invites her extended family to join her and together they begin a restoration and modernization to try making a business of house tours and events. When the ex-husband returns to bully her and vandalizes some of the artwork, Miranda discovers a secret held by the house for a hundred years.
Celebrated artist Esme Howard lived in Myddleton Mote in 1917. With her fiancé killed in the war, still wanting to be loved and have a child, and with a sense of duty, she advertises in a newspaper: “Lady, fiancé killed, will gladly marry officer totally blinded or otherwise incapacitated by the war.”
She meets a suitable responder, Captain Guy Carlyle, an officer whose face and body have been severely damaged in the war, and they decide to marry. Unfortunately, Esme is unaware of the tortured mind of her new husband, who suffers from what would now be called extreme post-traumatic stress syndrome. He daily relives the horrors of war in the trenches with increasing paranoia, screaming nightmares, and deep-seated suspicion of his new wife. Soon Esme realizes there will never be a child, something Guy did not tell her. Esme finds comfort in the company of the local physician and after one night of unexpected passion, finds herself pregnant. As the child grows within her, Guy’s wrath turns on her and she becomes locked by him in her own home. Her response is to paint a series of works, within which she places her cries for help, hoping that one day someone will find them. That person is Miranda.
This is a cleverly devised story that captures the reader from the start. The house is not only a setting but also a character unto itself with its incredible atmosphere. Those that inhabit it project true emotions that lend reality to the story. The author deals with Guy’s descent into the madness of his PTSD with unblinking authenticity and pathos. Nevertheless, despite the heavy emotional matter, the author draws all the threads of the story to a satisfying, if sad, ending.
January 29, 2022
I loved this book! I found the way the author used the dual timelines helped add to the suspense in parts and closure in others for one or both timelines. Miranda's family was there to support her while Esme thought she was alone in the world after the deaths of her family members and fiance. At times it felt like I was caught in a swirl of emotions. Happy over the lovechild Esme has, anger at her "husband", sadness as Esme accepts her fate in the priest hole, and a sense of relief when Brodie takes care of Esme and her child at the end of Esme's story. I cried at the life cut short but they became happy tears as Miranda found peace and Esme's story finds a happy ending. The descriptions of the paintings made me wish that they really existed and that I could see them. this book highlighted the struggles the soliders from the first world war had when they returned home. Because we live in a time when mental health is talked about more often than other points in time, I found Ihad to remind myself that "shell shock" was something that they had really no idea as to how to treat it and help these men deal with the horrors they saw and reintegrate into society. I would highly recommend this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2020
A must read
This book will take you on an emotional and memorable journey. As with all Linda's books her characters are so real. Enjoy.
This book will take you on an emotional and memorable journey. As with all Linda's books her characters are so real. Enjoy.
March 15, 2021
I was totally mesmerized by this wonderful storytelling and engaging characters.
August 12, 2021
I read this novel as part of the No Woman Is An Island Boxset, and loved it!
This is the first novel I read by Linda Gillard, and, to save you time, in case you’re in a hurry, I can tell you I’ve added her name to my list of authors to watch out for.
This historical novel is also a dual-time story, combining a contemporary chronological timeline (set in 2018) following Miranda Norton, a woman who inherits a beautiful building from a famous father she never knew, and decides to move in with her whole family (her mother, her adult pregnant daughter and son-in-law and her twin teenage sons) to make ends meet, and the story of a previous owner, Esme Howard, a painter whose family had lived in the house for generations, who after several losses during the Great War, makes a decision that will have drastic consequences for all involved. Her story takes place from 1917 until the very end of the war, and there are all kinds of links and connections between the two stories, and even a touch of the paranormal.
Myddleton Mote, the property that links both time periods and sets of characters, becomes a protagonist in its own right, and there is something of the Gothic romance in the story, with multitudes of secrets, forbidden love stories, people being kept prisoner, losses and bereavements, hidden rooms, mysterious findings, rumours and disappearances, heroes and villains, some unexplained events (a ghost, perhaps), and even a moat. There are not the only themes touched upon by the novel. Women in abusive relationships take a central role in both stories, but there is also plenty of information about life during WWI, shell shock and the experience of returning soldiers, the world of art, especially for female painters, and also the feelings of grief, guilt, and sacrifice. It is a grand melodrama, and there are moments that are very sad and emotional, although the novel also contains its light and happy moments.
The story is divided up in three parts: the first and the third one are told in the first person by Miranda, and the second one narrates the story of Esme in the third person, although the narration moves between the different characters, giving readers a chance to become better acquainted not only with what happens, but also with the feelings and state of mind of the main characters (Esme; Guy, her husband; and Dr Brodie; although we also get to follow some of the others, like wonderful Hanna, the maid who plays a fundamental part in the story). Part one and two also contain fragments of Esme’s narrative, in the first person, of her own story. That means that when we read part 2, we already have some inklings as to what has been going on, but we get the whole story ahead of Miranda, and everything fits into place.
I don’t want to go on and on, so I’ll just try and summarise. I loved the story. Some of the high points for me were: the relationships in Miranda’s extended family, and how well the different generations get on; the way the author handles the experience of domestic abuse/violence, including fascinating comparisons and parallels between the circumstances of two women separated by 100 years; the descriptions of London and the UK during WWI and the experiences of the people in the home front; shell-shock and how it affected soldiers during the war; I loved the descriptions of Esme’s creative process, her inspiration, and her paintings (which I could see in my mind’s eye), and also the true story of Baroque Italian painter Artemisia Gentileschi (which I am fascinated by), a woman deserving of much more attention than she has been given so far. I also enjoyed the mystery side of things, and trying to piece the details of the story together, although for me, Esme’s story, the house, and Miranda’s family were the winners.
I have mentioned the abuse the female characters suffer, and although this is mostly mental, it should come with a warning, as it is horrifying at times. Some of the descriptions of the experiences during the war are harrowing as well, and there is also illness to contend with. Notwithstanding that, I cannot recommend this novel highly enough. Any readers who love historical fiction set in the early XX century, particularly during WWI, in the UK, who are keen on mysterious houses, a good love story, and prefer stories told (mostly) from a female perspective, should check this one. Oh, and the ending is... as close to perfect as anyone could wish.
This is the first novel I read by Linda Gillard, and, to save you time, in case you’re in a hurry, I can tell you I’ve added her name to my list of authors to watch out for.
This historical novel is also a dual-time story, combining a contemporary chronological timeline (set in 2018) following Miranda Norton, a woman who inherits a beautiful building from a famous father she never knew, and decides to move in with her whole family (her mother, her adult pregnant daughter and son-in-law and her twin teenage sons) to make ends meet, and the story of a previous owner, Esme Howard, a painter whose family had lived in the house for generations, who after several losses during the Great War, makes a decision that will have drastic consequences for all involved. Her story takes place from 1917 until the very end of the war, and there are all kinds of links and connections between the two stories, and even a touch of the paranormal.
Myddleton Mote, the property that links both time periods and sets of characters, becomes a protagonist in its own right, and there is something of the Gothic romance in the story, with multitudes of secrets, forbidden love stories, people being kept prisoner, losses and bereavements, hidden rooms, mysterious findings, rumours and disappearances, heroes and villains, some unexplained events (a ghost, perhaps), and even a moat. There are not the only themes touched upon by the novel. Women in abusive relationships take a central role in both stories, but there is also plenty of information about life during WWI, shell shock and the experience of returning soldiers, the world of art, especially for female painters, and also the feelings of grief, guilt, and sacrifice. It is a grand melodrama, and there are moments that are very sad and emotional, although the novel also contains its light and happy moments.
The story is divided up in three parts: the first and the third one are told in the first person by Miranda, and the second one narrates the story of Esme in the third person, although the narration moves between the different characters, giving readers a chance to become better acquainted not only with what happens, but also with the feelings and state of mind of the main characters (Esme; Guy, her husband; and Dr Brodie; although we also get to follow some of the others, like wonderful Hanna, the maid who plays a fundamental part in the story). Part one and two also contain fragments of Esme’s narrative, in the first person, of her own story. That means that when we read part 2, we already have some inklings as to what has been going on, but we get the whole story ahead of Miranda, and everything fits into place.
I don’t want to go on and on, so I’ll just try and summarise. I loved the story. Some of the high points for me were: the relationships in Miranda’s extended family, and how well the different generations get on; the way the author handles the experience of domestic abuse/violence, including fascinating comparisons and parallels between the circumstances of two women separated by 100 years; the descriptions of London and the UK during WWI and the experiences of the people in the home front; shell-shock and how it affected soldiers during the war; I loved the descriptions of Esme’s creative process, her inspiration, and her paintings (which I could see in my mind’s eye), and also the true story of Baroque Italian painter Artemisia Gentileschi (which I am fascinated by), a woman deserving of much more attention than she has been given so far. I also enjoyed the mystery side of things, and trying to piece the details of the story together, although for me, Esme’s story, the house, and Miranda’s family were the winners.
I have mentioned the abuse the female characters suffer, and although this is mostly mental, it should come with a warning, as it is horrifying at times. Some of the descriptions of the experiences during the war are harrowing as well, and there is also illness to contend with. Notwithstanding that, I cannot recommend this novel highly enough. Any readers who love historical fiction set in the early XX century, particularly during WWI, in the UK, who are keen on mysterious houses, a good love story, and prefer stories told (mostly) from a female perspective, should check this one. Oh, and the ending is... as close to perfect as anyone could wish.
June 1, 2020
My small, virtual, lockdown book group have just read and discussed Hidden. For the current round of books we are recommending a favourite author and Linda Gillard was my choice. As I have read all her other books Hidden was chosen, even though there were reservations about the subject matter in these “unprecedented” times.
From her website I understand Linda had “issues” with this book but, despite pressure, retained her integrity and wrote, and published, the book she wanted to write.
Hidden is a “sliding doors” novel set in a moated Tudor manor house (I visualised Oxburgh Hall in Norfolk, the rest of the group were at Ightham Mote in Kent), in the present day and during the First World War. As are all of this author’s books, Hidden is written with an understanding of and empathy for the suffering of others, particularly in relation to their mental illness or disability. The villains of the book, Patrick and Guy are both abusive to their partners, but, in her classic grey area style, Linda Gillard’s writing led us to discuss whether they were villains or victims. The hero of the story, Dr Brodie, provoked fierce discussion in our little group and we concluded that he was actually our least favourite character as he failed to be a true knight on a white charger and was actually weak and disappointing as he allowed himself to be restricted by the social mores of the early twentieth century.
For us, the book ended a bit quickly, we would have liked another couple of 2018 chapters which developed the conclusions of the tale in more detail but all good things have to end somewhere. We were not affected by the aspects of confinement in Hidden that may have triggered a link with our current lockdown life and found the book both a page-turning tale and an education in the appreciation of all we have today, especially as women.
Hidden easily earns five stars and Linda Gillard now has more fans. I recommended my favourites, Emotional Geology and Stargazing to my book group and we’re looking forward to her new book being completed.
From her website I understand Linda had “issues” with this book but, despite pressure, retained her integrity and wrote, and published, the book she wanted to write.
Hidden is a “sliding doors” novel set in a moated Tudor manor house (I visualised Oxburgh Hall in Norfolk, the rest of the group were at Ightham Mote in Kent), in the present day and during the First World War. As are all of this author’s books, Hidden is written with an understanding of and empathy for the suffering of others, particularly in relation to their mental illness or disability. The villains of the book, Patrick and Guy are both abusive to their partners, but, in her classic grey area style, Linda Gillard’s writing led us to discuss whether they were villains or victims. The hero of the story, Dr Brodie, provoked fierce discussion in our little group and we concluded that he was actually our least favourite character as he failed to be a true knight on a white charger and was actually weak and disappointing as he allowed himself to be restricted by the social mores of the early twentieth century.
For us, the book ended a bit quickly, we would have liked another couple of 2018 chapters which developed the conclusions of the tale in more detail but all good things have to end somewhere. We were not affected by the aspects of confinement in Hidden that may have triggered a link with our current lockdown life and found the book both a page-turning tale and an education in the appreciation of all we have today, especially as women.
Hidden easily earns five stars and Linda Gillard now has more fans. I recommended my favourites, Emotional Geology and Stargazing to my book group and we’re looking forward to her new book being completed.
April 11, 2020
Another complex love story by Linda Gillard set in two times 100 years apart. The tribulations of Esme Howard during World War One are revealed a century later by the new owners of her Mote and we read of her paintings, her loves and her ending.
Once again Linda has drawn some memorable characters - the shell shocked husband, the loyal maid, etc., and I especially loved the Shakespearean links via “The Painted Ladies” reflecting Esme’s situation.
There were moments in the middle of the book when I wanted the pace to pick up but the finale was excellent, tying loose knots in a satisfying and appropriate way.
Once again Linda has drawn some memorable characters - the shell shocked husband, the loyal maid, etc., and I especially loved the Shakespearean links via “The Painted Ladies” reflecting Esme’s situation.
There were moments in the middle of the book when I wanted the pace to pick up but the finale was excellent, tying loose knots in a satisfying and appropriate way.
March 14, 2020
Another brilliant story from Linda Gillard. She never disappoints in either her topics or writing skills.
This book deals with the First World War and its affect on both those who took part in it and also those who were left at home. The physical injuries the men received were horrific but those affecting the mind were even more devastating.
The book starts with the present day and goes back and forth between to the two time lines. The two main female characters are both strong women who have to deal with abusive husbands.
A great read, highly recommended.
This book deals with the First World War and its affect on both those who took part in it and also those who were left at home. The physical injuries the men received were horrific but those affecting the mind were even more devastating.
The book starts with the present day and goes back and forth between to the two time lines. The two main female characters are both strong women who have to deal with abusive husbands.
A great read, highly recommended.
February 9, 2020
Magnificent!
I think this may be Ms. Gillard’s best work yet. The story captivated me from the beginning. The parallels between the past and present characters were written in a very striking way.
Ms. Gillard does well what many authors fail to do- write about mental illness in a realistic, compassionate manner. It is a central theme in many of her novels and I deeply appreciate the raw honesty and vulnerability in which she writes. It’s very refreshing.
I think this may be Ms. Gillard’s best work yet. The story captivated me from the beginning. The parallels between the past and present characters were written in a very striking way.
Ms. Gillard does well what many authors fail to do- write about mental illness in a realistic, compassionate manner. It is a central theme in many of her novels and I deeply appreciate the raw honesty and vulnerability in which she writes. It’s very refreshing.
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February 11, 2020Hauntingly Beautiful Story
This story really captivated me. The characters each came to life and I lived the story, not just read it. As usual the author knows how to draw one in and make us invested in the tale. This book is no exception.
I don't want to give anything away, but let me say this, I think this author is extremely talented and you cannot go wrong in reading any of her stories.
This story really captivated me. The characters each came to life and I lived the story, not just read it. As usual the author knows how to draw one in and make us invested in the tale. This book is no exception.
I don't want to give anything away, but let me say this, I think this author is extremely talented and you cannot go wrong in reading any of her stories.
February 7, 2020
I completely binged this book in one day. It’s a Linda Gillard so you know it’s going to be good! And it was!!!! Wonderful and heartbreaking at the same time. I love that the main character is an artist, the things she painted....all poignant. I won’t say anymore, read it!!
February 9, 2020
Another brilliant page turner from Ms Gillard. Beautifully written as always. I loved this book which had shivers running up my spine and made me cry.
March 29, 2020
Hidden is the latest novel from Linda Gillard and just like the other books from this author which I have read, I thought it was excellent.
This is a dual time story and that is something I always enjoy. It tells the story of Esme, whose brothers and fiance were all killed during World War One. She places an advert in a newspaper offering to marry an officer, in particular one who has been injured during the war. This may seem an odd thing to do but it did actually happen. Her marriage, however, turns out to be very different from what she hoped with her husband suffering terribly from shell shock and becoming more and more controlling.
In the present day, the focus is on Miranda who has inherited Myddleton Mote, the house where Esme lived, from her actor father. There is a leak in the moat surrounding the house and as the water level drops, a skeleton is revealed. A very unwelcome visitor to the house causes a lot of damage but in the meantime, reveals some long hidden secrets. As well as the two main parts of the story, we also read Esme's innermost thoughts in extracts from her testimony.
Hidden is so beautifully written with the characters all so well drawn. I can't quite decide if I liked the story in the past or present best or if I liked them both equally and I think that is a good sign. I felt so much sympathy for Esme and the awful situation she found herself in. Whilst initially, like Esme, having some compassion for her husband and how he was not coping with his experiences in the war, as his behaviour grew more irrational, I began to not only seriously dislike him but also worry for her safety. Both storylines are strong and show the very different experiences for women. The two main characters had much in common in their relationships but with a hundred years separating them, it was clear how much the rights of women have, thankfully, changed over time.
Hidden is quality storytelling, a real page turner which is full of tension as the secrets from the past are revealed. So much was hidden in the book not just in a physical way but also in a more emotional way. Linda Gillard tells the interwoven stories of Esme, Miranda and Myddleton Mote in a compelling way in this richly detailed, atmospheric novel.
This is a dual time story and that is something I always enjoy. It tells the story of Esme, whose brothers and fiance were all killed during World War One. She places an advert in a newspaper offering to marry an officer, in particular one who has been injured during the war. This may seem an odd thing to do but it did actually happen. Her marriage, however, turns out to be very different from what she hoped with her husband suffering terribly from shell shock and becoming more and more controlling.
In the present day, the focus is on Miranda who has inherited Myddleton Mote, the house where Esme lived, from her actor father. There is a leak in the moat surrounding the house and as the water level drops, a skeleton is revealed. A very unwelcome visitor to the house causes a lot of damage but in the meantime, reveals some long hidden secrets. As well as the two main parts of the story, we also read Esme's innermost thoughts in extracts from her testimony.
Hidden is so beautifully written with the characters all so well drawn. I can't quite decide if I liked the story in the past or present best or if I liked them both equally and I think that is a good sign. I felt so much sympathy for Esme and the awful situation she found herself in. Whilst initially, like Esme, having some compassion for her husband and how he was not coping with his experiences in the war, as his behaviour grew more irrational, I began to not only seriously dislike him but also worry for her safety. Both storylines are strong and show the very different experiences for women. The two main characters had much in common in their relationships but with a hundred years separating them, it was clear how much the rights of women have, thankfully, changed over time.
Hidden is quality storytelling, a real page turner which is full of tension as the secrets from the past are revealed. So much was hidden in the book not just in a physical way but also in a more emotional way. Linda Gillard tells the interwoven stories of Esme, Miranda and Myddleton Mote in a compelling way in this richly detailed, atmospheric novel.
February 6, 2020
This is a story told in two timeframes. There’s the near present day, as Miranda and her extended family take ownership of Myddleton Mote, hoping to escape from their own sadness and trauma, to find a home and a place where they can safely live their lives. But echoes of the past begin to surface, an unsettling feeling that the house has dark secrets that need to be revealed – and the story moves to that of Esme, a gifted artist living at the property in 1918, and the choices she makes, leading her into both danger and despair.
Something I really enjoyed about the book’s construction was that the author chose not to alternate the stories – and that would only have lessened their impact. Esme’s story in particular is one that needs continuity, to follow the steady rise in tension as her husband’s behaviour becomes increasingly extreme, the threat to her safety increases, and the atmosphere steadily thickens. And it’s really quite a story, as she uses her art as an escape from her desperate situation.
There’s an all-pervading sense of claustrophobia about her existence, quite wonderfully captured and conveyed through the writing in a way that you can feel with every fibre. The characters are just wonderful too – I did find Esme difficult to sympathise with at first, unable to identify with the reasons behind her choices, but that certainly changed dramatically as the story progressed. The portrayal of her husband Guy, with his slow descent into insanity brought about by his wartime experiences, is both believable and thoroughly shocking.
I also really loved the way the house itself became part of the story – the moat, the surroundings, the hidden features of its architecture. In the contemporary story, its unusual construction and its art collection make it attractive to visitors, as well as a refuge for Miranda and her family – in its earlier incarnation, it became a prison.
The way the secrets of the past and the central mystery are resolved had me breathless – so original, quite unexpected, the pages turning faster and faster, the ending wholly satisfying and so well handled.
Yes, this really is one of those unmissable ones – I loved every moment, and urge you to add it to your reading list without delay. Highly, highly recommended.
Something I really enjoyed about the book’s construction was that the author chose not to alternate the stories – and that would only have lessened their impact. Esme’s story in particular is one that needs continuity, to follow the steady rise in tension as her husband’s behaviour becomes increasingly extreme, the threat to her safety increases, and the atmosphere steadily thickens. And it’s really quite a story, as she uses her art as an escape from her desperate situation.
There’s an all-pervading sense of claustrophobia about her existence, quite wonderfully captured and conveyed through the writing in a way that you can feel with every fibre. The characters are just wonderful too – I did find Esme difficult to sympathise with at first, unable to identify with the reasons behind her choices, but that certainly changed dramatically as the story progressed. The portrayal of her husband Guy, with his slow descent into insanity brought about by his wartime experiences, is both believable and thoroughly shocking.
I also really loved the way the house itself became part of the story – the moat, the surroundings, the hidden features of its architecture. In the contemporary story, its unusual construction and its art collection make it attractive to visitors, as well as a refuge for Miranda and her family – in its earlier incarnation, it became a prison.
The way the secrets of the past and the central mystery are resolved had me breathless – so original, quite unexpected, the pages turning faster and faster, the ending wholly satisfying and so well handled.
Yes, this really is one of those unmissable ones – I loved every moment, and urge you to add it to your reading list without delay. Highly, highly recommended.
June 18, 2020
Another house, two families, another saga. Linda has a great way of mixing up eras, present day and World War 1. Miranda and Esme have more in common than just a house and difficult marriages. Miranda inherits the house and paintings from a father she never knew. She wants to restore the house and paintings but finds secrets she must find out more about.
Esme wants a child of her own, but after a poor choice of husband, it soon becomes clear this may not happen and turns to painting to ease her path into an unknown future with a difficult husband who is struggling with the turmoil of war in his mind. Is it possible the chance of a child may just become possible?
Miranda and Esme prove to be strong willed women and both have to deal with what life throws at them, not always for the best outcome. Once again 'the house' is a great character and Linda has a knack of bringing it to life with all its hidden secrets, past and present. I loved the way everything tied together well for the ending. A thoroughly good read. Well done again Linda. Now wonders what the subject of her next book will be.
Esme wants a child of her own, but after a poor choice of husband, it soon becomes clear this may not happen and turns to painting to ease her path into an unknown future with a difficult husband who is struggling with the turmoil of war in his mind. Is it possible the chance of a child may just become possible?
Miranda and Esme prove to be strong willed women and both have to deal with what life throws at them, not always for the best outcome. Once again 'the house' is a great character and Linda has a knack of bringing it to life with all its hidden secrets, past and present. I loved the way everything tied together well for the ending. A thoroughly good read. Well done again Linda. Now wonders what the subject of her next book will be.
April 22, 2020
It's no secret that I'm a big Linda Gillard fan, and have loved all her books, and Hidden is no exception, and also has confirmed the reason why.
As I got stuck in, I realised, picking up a new Linda Gillard book, doesn't ever feel like meeting new characters in a story, it feels like catching up with the kind of old friends that you don't see often, but when you do the conversation starts up and flows as if you've never been apart!
A dual time-frame book, Hidden provided me with such characters, that I know would be friends if they were real. Admittedly it was easy to identify with both Miranda and Esme, due to my own history, but they are such well-written rounded characters, I think that anyone would be able to connect with them, regardless of whether or not they had shared similar experiences to them. (I don't want to say too much for fear of unravelling spoilers for those yet to read!)
The story though, was also gripping, and I had to keep reading to find out the fates of both our heroines, which was great for the reading experience, but also meant I finished far too quickly!!
But, as with all Linda books, it's 100% the characters that make them, she has a way of writing people that feel so real, they get inside your head and heart, every time.
Hidden will stay with me for a long time, and I think it's story will resonate with a lot of people.
Highly recommended!
As I got stuck in, I realised, picking up a new Linda Gillard book, doesn't ever feel like meeting new characters in a story, it feels like catching up with the kind of old friends that you don't see often, but when you do the conversation starts up and flows as if you've never been apart!
A dual time-frame book, Hidden provided me with such characters, that I know would be friends if they were real. Admittedly it was easy to identify with both Miranda and Esme, due to my own history, but they are such well-written rounded characters, I think that anyone would be able to connect with them, regardless of whether or not they had shared similar experiences to them. (I don't want to say too much for fear of unravelling spoilers for those yet to read!)
The story though, was also gripping, and I had to keep reading to find out the fates of both our heroines, which was great for the reading experience, but also meant I finished far too quickly!!
But, as with all Linda books, it's 100% the characters that make them, she has a way of writing people that feel so real, they get inside your head and heart, every time.
Hidden will stay with me for a long time, and I think it's story will resonate with a lot of people.
Highly recommended!
August 1, 2020
I loved this dual-time story. Esme's life is turned upside down - first when her fiance is killed then when the man she married became mentally unbalanced thanks to as they called it back then shell-shock.
On the other side of the dual-time story, is Miranda. From the time she moves into Myddleton Mote, she senses something wrong. The Painted Ladies, the collection of paintings created by Esme one hundred years prior hang in the gallery. Is it Esme she senses or her own father?
Linda's characters are strong yet vulnerable. This type of book appeals to me partly because of the paranormal (Miranda's sensing something from the past) and the two time periods covered.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
On the other side of the dual-time story, is Miranda. From the time she moves into Myddleton Mote, she senses something wrong. The Painted Ladies, the collection of paintings created by Esme one hundred years prior hang in the gallery. Is it Esme she senses or her own father?
Linda's characters are strong yet vulnerable. This type of book appeals to me partly because of the paranormal (Miranda's sensing something from the past) and the two time periods covered.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
October 11, 2022
This is a book about domestic violence, both physical and mental. It contrasts the position of a woman in the 21st century with that of a woman in the early 20th century, towards the end of the First World War, when "husbands can do what they like with their wives".
Both women are strong, refusing, each in her own way, to be totally subservient to their abusive spouses and it makes for interesting reading.
"Hidden" is not a difficult or complicated read but the subject matter makes it interesting. Only the ending is perhaps a little contrived.
Both women are strong, refusing, each in her own way, to be totally subservient to their abusive spouses and it makes for interesting reading.
"Hidden" is not a difficult or complicated read but the subject matter makes it interesting. Only the ending is perhaps a little contrived.
March 28, 2020
Another brilliant book from Linda Gilard. It was amazing read, i don’t know how she writes such wonderful stories but so glad she does. You really coonect with the characters . This was my favourite up to now .
May 3, 2020
Enthralling
I have accidentally come across this author, and read this book over several hours. I have read whilst cooking, whilst supposedly working, whilst folding clothes, because I could not wait. I had to see how the story finished, and whilst it isn’t the ending I wanted, it is the right ending. I’m off to search out more of Ms Gillard’s work.
I have accidentally come across this author, and read this book over several hours. I have read whilst cooking, whilst supposedly working, whilst folding clothes, because I could not wait. I had to see how the story finished, and whilst it isn’t the ending I wanted, it is the right ending. I’m off to search out more of Ms Gillard’s work.
May 17, 2020
Lovely story
I have read several of Linda’s books and loved them all but this is one of my favourites and it was difficult to put it down. Some lovely character development with an intriguing intertwining love story. Keep writing Linda...your books are wonderful
I have read several of Linda’s books and loved them all but this is one of my favourites and it was difficult to put it down. Some lovely character development with an intriguing intertwining love story. Keep writing Linda...your books are wonderful
December 4, 2022
Hidden
I loved this book. The history and the characters are so intriguing and it was a great story. This is the second book I have read by this author and I was not disappointed. Highly recommend this author.
I loved this book. The history and the characters are so intriguing and it was a great story. This is the second book I have read by this author and I was not disappointed. Highly recommend this author.
February 19, 2020
Brilliant.
I became immersed in this book, I felt as if I was there with Miranda and Esme. Recommended as an absorbing read.
I became immersed in this book, I felt as if I was there with Miranda and Esme. Recommended as an absorbing read.
March 21, 2020
Another engrossing read from Linda Gillard
Thoroughly enjoyed this new novel . A gripping tale with a slightly ghostly flavour which does not disappoint . I love Linda Gillard’s books .Give it a try!
Thoroughly enjoyed this new novel . A gripping tale with a slightly ghostly flavour which does not disappoint . I love Linda Gillard’s books .Give it a try!
April 20, 2020
I loved this book. Linda Gillard is one of my favourite authors. As with her other books, this one has a wonderful sense of place, vivid descriptions and a great set of characters. This book has a terrible sense of foreboding running through both timelines that made for a tense, engrossing read. Thoroughly recommended.
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