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The House on the Hill
Still grieving the death of her husband, Lauren leaves the hubbub of Boston for the peaceful shores of Cape Cod, where she hopes to come to terms with her loss and devote herself to her writing. Historic Holland House, isolated on a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, seems like the perfect refuge, until Lauren discovers that she’s not alone, and her ghostly roommate might be none other than Sophie Holland, the mysterious first mistress of the house. With the help of a handsome doctor with an interest in local history, Lauren is soon drawn out of her self-imposed exile as she sets out to learn what happened to Sophie and stumbles onto a story worth writing about.
377 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2020
1073 people are currently reading
857 people want to read
About the author
Irina Shapiro
109 books1,189 followersTo write a novel was a dream of mine since I was a child. Life, my practical nature, and self-doubt got in the way, so it was decades later that an opportunity to write finally presented itself. I honestly didn't think I had what it takes to write a full-length novel, but once I faced the blank screen and my fingers touched the keyboard, everything disappeared except my characters and their surroundings, and suddenly I knew that this was what I was born to do.
Since then, I've written many books and have enjoyed some positive reviews, but sometimes, when I stop to reflect, I'm still amazed that I'm living my dream.
Follow me on BookBub for discount deals and new release alerts.
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/irina...
Since then, I've written many books and have enjoyed some positive reviews, but sometimes, when I stop to reflect, I'm still amazed that I'm living my dream.
Follow me on BookBub for discount deals and new release alerts.
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/irina...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
December 10, 2025
Lauren is an Author in her twenties, and her husband, Zack, who was in the military, has been killed in Afghanistan. She is still grieving and looking to escape for a while. When she views Holland House, an old mansion on a hill, she decides to rent it and move in for the Summer.
On her first day in the house, things start to go wrong almost immediately when Billy, her dog, has an accident, and she has to rush him to the vet; here she meets Dr Ryan Kelly. The following morning upon waking, she sees a woman's apparition in her bedroom—she ends up seeing the same ghost repeatedly through her stay.
Then we go back to 1726 and are introduced to Sophie; we are taken through her narrative, which revolves around her lifelong friend Teddy, who later becomes the great love of her life. Her story, though, soon descends into tragedy.
Lauren has an idea to write a ghost story and, with the help of Ryan (they have become close), starts looking into the history of the house and the people who inhabited it. Lauren begins to realise that it is Sophie who used to live there, and it is her ghost she keeps seeing.
This was surprisingly good. When I first picked it up on a whim, I thought it was just a haunted house story, but there is a mixture of the paranormal, historical fiction and romantic suspense. We flip back and forth between Sophie's tragic tale in the past and Lauren grieving her husband and trying to move on with her life in the present.
There are lots of twists and turns, and plenty of betrayals are uncovered along the way. We get to meet some pretty unsavoury characters too. Just be aware that in Sophie's plotline it does have some domestic violence, which can make for uncomfortable reading.
When I started it, I actually thought this was mostly going to be about Lauren, but Sophie's story seemed to take precedence, and I have to say I did like Sophie's narrative a lot more; it was a far more interesting and elaborately plotted tale.
This was nicely written and kept me engaged throughout, and I liked how it ended; even if it was bittersweet, everyone got some degree of closure.
Rating it 3.5/5.
On her first day in the house, things start to go wrong almost immediately when Billy, her dog, has an accident, and she has to rush him to the vet; here she meets Dr Ryan Kelly. The following morning upon waking, she sees a woman's apparition in her bedroom—she ends up seeing the same ghost repeatedly through her stay.
Then we go back to 1726 and are introduced to Sophie; we are taken through her narrative, which revolves around her lifelong friend Teddy, who later becomes the great love of her life. Her story, though, soon descends into tragedy.
Lauren has an idea to write a ghost story and, with the help of Ryan (they have become close), starts looking into the history of the house and the people who inhabited it. Lauren begins to realise that it is Sophie who used to live there, and it is her ghost she keeps seeing.
This was surprisingly good. When I first picked it up on a whim, I thought it was just a haunted house story, but there is a mixture of the paranormal, historical fiction and romantic suspense. We flip back and forth between Sophie's tragic tale in the past and Lauren grieving her husband and trying to move on with her life in the present.
There are lots of twists and turns, and plenty of betrayals are uncovered along the way. We get to meet some pretty unsavoury characters too. Just be aware that in Sophie's plotline it does have some domestic violence, which can make for uncomfortable reading.
When I started it, I actually thought this was mostly going to be about Lauren, but Sophie's story seemed to take precedence, and I have to say I did like Sophie's narrative a lot more; it was a far more interesting and elaborately plotted tale.
This was nicely written and kept me engaged throughout, and I liked how it ended; even if it was bittersweet, everyone got some degree of closure.
Rating it 3.5/5.
February 26, 2021
After reading The House On The Hill by Irina Shapiro, I realized WHY o WHY this book kept popping up in few lists as a MUST-READ recommendation for me. It had all the tropes that usually captures my interest, dual-time line, ghosts, romance and of course that cover image is enough of a sell, in my opinion. YES, of course, there’s numerous covers with a similar image of a woman with the background of a house but I do fall for it ALL THE TIME 🙄 🙄 🙄.
It’s been a year for Lauren but she’s yet to come to terms with the pain and grief of her husband’s death. Holland House in Cape Cod was a refuge to find her voice again and to let go of the past. The house however has other ideas as Sophie Holland begins to show herself and the author takes the reader into the 1720’s to the life of Sophie and her love Teddy Mercer. What follows is a tale of star-crossed lovers unable to join together and live as one, Sophie’s abuse at the hands of her husband and her determination to accept the black hands of fate that is woven in their lives.
As Lauren finds comfort with Dr. Ryan Kelly, she looks forward to move on in life and write this fascinating tale of the Hollands.
The story is definitely interesting, Lauren’s heartache in the events that followed her husband’s death and her acceptance of the cold facts of life was brilliant. Sophie’s eternal wait for Teddy has been described quite lovingly. It was in fact Sophie’s narrative that holds the reader in thrall as the incidents that occurs in her young life is unbearable and painful to read.
A well-written novel about loss, grief and pain, Irina Shapiro beautifully captures the strength that each of us would find in ourselves to fight against all adversity.
Now all I want is to visit this lovely place and immerse myself into the tranquility and serenity conveyed thru the book😊.
Recommended to all fans of historical fiction with a touch of romance and suspense.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India and Twitter.
It’s been a year for Lauren but she’s yet to come to terms with the pain and grief of her husband’s death. Holland House in Cape Cod was a refuge to find her voice again and to let go of the past. The house however has other ideas as Sophie Holland begins to show herself and the author takes the reader into the 1720’s to the life of Sophie and her love Teddy Mercer. What follows is a tale of star-crossed lovers unable to join together and live as one, Sophie’s abuse at the hands of her husband and her determination to accept the black hands of fate that is woven in their lives.
As Lauren finds comfort with Dr. Ryan Kelly, she looks forward to move on in life and write this fascinating tale of the Hollands.
The story is definitely interesting, Lauren’s heartache in the events that followed her husband’s death and her acceptance of the cold facts of life was brilliant. Sophie’s eternal wait for Teddy has been described quite lovingly. It was in fact Sophie’s narrative that holds the reader in thrall as the incidents that occurs in her young life is unbearable and painful to read.
A well-written novel about loss, grief and pain, Irina Shapiro beautifully captures the strength that each of us would find in ourselves to fight against all adversity.
Now all I want is to visit this lovely place and immerse myself into the tranquility and serenity conveyed thru the book😊.
Recommended to all fans of historical fiction with a touch of romance and suspense.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India and Twitter.
November 16, 2020
This was an incredibly rich story! It had mystery, romance, paranormal, and even a little humor buried within it. I highly recommend this excellent book!
January 5, 2024
This is the second book I've read from this author, and I liked this one a little better. That said, I had the same reaction to this story as the first one: I wanted less time on the present day story and more time in the past!
Lauren's story was fine (although I don't care for the trope of making the dead husband less than so she can move on more easily), but Sophie's story really captured my attention. A bad marriage, on the lam, in love with a pirate, treasure hunting...every time the story went to Lauren, I wanted to get back to Sophie.
Sophie and Teddy's story seemed equal parts love and tragedy, and the ending was sad yet somehow lovely.
Lauren's story was fine (although I don't care for the trope of making the dead husband less than so she can move on more easily), but Sophie's story really captured my attention. A bad marriage, on the lam, in love with a pirate, treasure hunting...every time the story went to Lauren, I wanted to get back to Sophie.
Sophie and Teddy's story seemed equal parts love and tragedy, and the ending was sad yet somehow lovely.
May 29, 2020
In the modern day, Laura has recently been widowed, having lost her husband in Iraq. She leaves their apartment in the heart of Boston for a summer of healing in an old house on the shores of Cape Cod. She’s hoping to leave her ghosts behind and perhaps find new inspiration for a book. But a ghostly visitor shows her there’s something different about the Holland House.
In the 1700s, Sophie is on the cusp of adulthood, counting the days until she can marry Teddy, a boy she’s loved for years. Her book maker father has his sights set on a man with a title or some money, and forbids his only daughter from following her heart. When her hand is forced and she must make a decision to save herself, her life begins to unravel.
While Laura works to learn more about her ghostly visitor and sort out her feelings about the handsome vet she met in town, Sophie’s charmed world shatters. Both women are trapped in webs of lies and grief woven hundreds of years apart, but inexplicably tied.
Every time I read something by Shapiro, I’m instantly on edge. I know terrible things will happen, but I savor the slight feeling of apprehension. Wondering who will be the one to stab the man character in the back is something I’ve come to expect and thoroughly enjoy.
My historical specialty is European-based, so having American history tidbits was very welcome. I live on the East Coast and admittedly don’t know a lot about colonial life other than what’s taught in basic classes. I always like how Shapiro brings in facts to give her books a level of realism that inspires me to explore the themes more on my own.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to all lovers of historical fiction and romantic suspense.
In the 1700s, Sophie is on the cusp of adulthood, counting the days until she can marry Teddy, a boy she’s loved for years. Her book maker father has his sights set on a man with a title or some money, and forbids his only daughter from following her heart. When her hand is forced and she must make a decision to save herself, her life begins to unravel.
While Laura works to learn more about her ghostly visitor and sort out her feelings about the handsome vet she met in town, Sophie’s charmed world shatters. Both women are trapped in webs of lies and grief woven hundreds of years apart, but inexplicably tied.
Every time I read something by Shapiro, I’m instantly on edge. I know terrible things will happen, but I savor the slight feeling of apprehension. Wondering who will be the one to stab the man character in the back is something I’ve come to expect and thoroughly enjoy.
My historical specialty is European-based, so having American history tidbits was very welcome. I live on the East Coast and admittedly don’t know a lot about colonial life other than what’s taught in basic classes. I always like how Shapiro brings in facts to give her books a level of realism that inspires me to explore the themes more on my own.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to all lovers of historical fiction and romantic suspense.
April 8, 2021
Enjoyable
I enjoyed this book, it was nice easy reading. It had a ghostly presence, lost love and new found love.
I enjoyed this book, it was nice easy reading. It had a ghostly presence, lost love and new found love.
October 15, 2024
This is my second book from this author. I had trouble putting it down at the end of the day. The two timelines were easy to follow from the beginning. Both main characters Lauren and Sophie were very similar in a lot of ways and I like to think that they helped each other....
January 6, 2021
Wow. This story. Just wow. It was beautifully tragic. It's a ghost story with a look into the past. Lauren is staying in an isolated house with her dog. She is still grieving the death of her military spouse. She meets a doctor in town who she has instant chemistry with. He has his own heartbreaking past. He is also a history buff, especially on the town they are in. They team up to learn about the ghost that Lauren keeps seeing. Turns out her name is Sophie and her story is a heartbreaking one. When I say heartbreaking, I mean you'll feel it in your soul. I know I did. Sophie's life was far from perfect. It seemed everyone in her life hurt her. I really thought we would never get a happy story from her. But it's there in the midst of the sadness. While this story was sad, it was so dang beautiful. Not every story is meant to be happy. And don't go thinking there isn't a happy ending. In true Irina Shapiro form we get two stories in one intertwined. This narrators voice was perfect for both time periods. A must read/listen for those that love a story with raw emotion. Warning, it will consume you.
February 15, 2024
If you want to read a book with no real story, no mystery, this is the book for you. This is practically the day to day lives of a woman in the 1700’s and a woman today who had the smallest connection of living in the same house a few centuries apart. You were given so many questions but not a lot of answers. It was a long book that never seemed to go anywhere.
January 15, 2022
Lauren’s husband died in Afghanistan during what was to have been his final tour of duty, leaving her to face the future alone. Gone are the hopes and dreams she had of a future together with the man she loved. But would that have been possible after she meets a young woman at her husband’s funeral? After a year of longing for a quiet place to collect herself, a place away from family and friends, a place where she can concentrate on her work as a writer, Lauren rents an old house that sits high on a hill just outside of Sandwich, Cape Cod. Not far from Boston where she lived, but removed enough to give her the space she needs. She takes her chocolate lab puppy, Billy, and sets out.
She doesn’t remain alone very long. Thanks to her puppy she meets Ryan Kelly, the local veterinarian. It’s easy to see there’s an attraction between them. And back at Holland House, the rental property, Lauren isn’t alone either. The ghost of Sophie Holland still roams the house and grounds. Mostly, though, she inhabits Lauren’s bedroom and can be seen looking out the windows, waiting for the arrival of a ship on the horizon.
When Lauren and Ryan, who has an interest in local history, join forces to uncover the history of Holland House, they grow ever closer. Ryan lost his wife shortly after his son was born and is still feeling the pangs of grief though the appearance of Lauren is helping greatly.
Here are my feelings: With Lauren a widow of just a year and Ryan also dealing with the aftermath of his grief, it’s nice to see them lean on one another for support. Their coming together seemed a bit awkward. Perhaps this was a trick of the writing. But I just didn’t feel their closeness.
With two story lines – one contemporary, the other set in colonial times – it was easy to keep the couples apart. But the historical time line was so much better written than the contemporary one. I would have enjoyed a story set completely around Sophie, her husband George Holland, and her true love Teddy Mercer (the pirate known as Mad Ted).
Overall, it was an intriguing story with history, ghosts, love, murder, betrayal, and illegitimate children thrown into the mix.
On a personal note, I wasn’t a fan of the formatting used, i.e., unjustified right margin. I’m being picky but that’s just me.
Actual rating 3.5 stars.
She doesn’t remain alone very long. Thanks to her puppy she meets Ryan Kelly, the local veterinarian. It’s easy to see there’s an attraction between them. And back at Holland House, the rental property, Lauren isn’t alone either. The ghost of Sophie Holland still roams the house and grounds. Mostly, though, she inhabits Lauren’s bedroom and can be seen looking out the windows, waiting for the arrival of a ship on the horizon.
When Lauren and Ryan, who has an interest in local history, join forces to uncover the history of Holland House, they grow ever closer. Ryan lost his wife shortly after his son was born and is still feeling the pangs of grief though the appearance of Lauren is helping greatly.
Here are my feelings: With Lauren a widow of just a year and Ryan also dealing with the aftermath of his grief, it’s nice to see them lean on one another for support. Their coming together seemed a bit awkward. Perhaps this was a trick of the writing. But I just didn’t feel their closeness.
With two story lines – one contemporary, the other set in colonial times – it was easy to keep the couples apart. But the historical time line was so much better written than the contemporary one. I would have enjoyed a story set completely around Sophie, her husband George Holland, and her true love Teddy Mercer (the pirate known as Mad Ted).
Overall, it was an intriguing story with history, ghosts, love, murder, betrayal, and illegitimate children thrown into the mix.
On a personal note, I wasn’t a fan of the formatting used, i.e., unjustified right margin. I’m being picky but that’s just me.
Actual rating 3.5 stars.
October 10, 2023
I really wanted to like this more than I did.....
As I often feel with Irina Shapiro's novels, the presents story and characters just fell short to me. I didn't care about Lauren and what happened between her and her husband. At first, I found her likable, but compared to Sophie and her struggles, Lauren just felt a little naive and winey.
I was also more captivated by Sophie's story. Whenever I had to read from Lauren's POV I was like....
Her and the veterinarian guy (his character was so boring I can't even remember his fucking name) were just so bland when compared to Sophie and Teddy.
Sophie and Teddy, on the other hand, were what made this novel. If this book was primarily based in the past, without any excerpts from the present, then it would have been perfect. Shapiro appears to do extensive research for her plots. And I really felt like she embodied how people lived and thought in the 17th century. She also did an amazing job in showing the reader everyday plights and struggles that women endured at this time.
Teddy was also complex. At first I wasn't sure how I felt about him, but he quickly grew on me as the book progressed.
All in all, I think the next book I read by Irina Shapiro will be something that doesn't involve any back and forth transitions from past to present, or vice versa. Her plots like this appear to be more well received, and I can see myself liking it more when fully invested in just one set of characters.
More than anything, I wish Shapiro would write a historical romance. Like something Lisa Kleypas or Tessa Dare style. I have a feeling she'd blow it out of the water and it'd be amazing . Just throwing that out there in case she ever reads this.
Please, please, please, give me an HR Irina Shapiro. I'll love you forever.
November 8, 2020
The House on the Hill by Irina Shapiro, is a really good story especially if you enjoy a bit of paranormal, spirits and ghosts. Lauren is mourning the death of her husband who was killed overseas while on duty. She's also mourning secrets that his death uncovered about their marriage.
She leaves Boston to stay on Cape Cod, to write and make decisions about her life. She rents this old home and enjoys the solitude. What she finds in Holland House is a kindred spirit, Sophie, who is also mourning her beloved, Teddy. Sophie is still waiting for her beloved Teddy to come home to her. She needs answers and someone to help her find them.
This story goes back and forth in time, telling us what each woman has endured. Lauren finds a theme for her new novel and courage to move on in life. These women help each other find exactly what they need in this lovely old house on the hill. A good read, albeit hard to read about how women were treated back in the day, they got what was coming to them, the evil men, that is.
She leaves Boston to stay on Cape Cod, to write and make decisions about her life. She rents this old home and enjoys the solitude. What she finds in Holland House is a kindred spirit, Sophie, who is also mourning her beloved, Teddy. Sophie is still waiting for her beloved Teddy to come home to her. She needs answers and someone to help her find them.
This story goes back and forth in time, telling us what each woman has endured. Lauren finds a theme for her new novel and courage to move on in life. These women help each other find exactly what they need in this lovely old house on the hill. A good read, albeit hard to read about how women were treated back in the day, they got what was coming to them, the evil men, that is.
November 9, 2024
Not My Favorite
It is hard to connect with both the historical and modern characters but it’s difficult to explain why. Sophie was a little too simple. I knew what she went through, but somehow couldn’t feel empathy with her. She stayed a distant person for me and didn’t seem to grow as a person through some remarkable experiences. I expected someone to be more mature at a younger age in that time period.
I can totally understand and have experienced Lauren’s trauma but still found her unrelatable. I think it would have helped both stories if things had been revealed earlier in the story. I thought Lauren was kinda witchy until knowing her actual damage. It was counter productive not to know why she judged her patriotic husband’s choices so harshly. It made her hard to root for.
Sophie stood up for herself once, but was generally selfish and whiny. Even taking her son from the home he knew.
Not my favorite plot or characters, other words by this author are more intriguing.
It is hard to connect with both the historical and modern characters but it’s difficult to explain why. Sophie was a little too simple. I knew what she went through, but somehow couldn’t feel empathy with her. She stayed a distant person for me and didn’t seem to grow as a person through some remarkable experiences. I expected someone to be more mature at a younger age in that time period.
I can totally understand and have experienced Lauren’s trauma but still found her unrelatable. I think it would have helped both stories if things had been revealed earlier in the story. I thought Lauren was kinda witchy until knowing her actual damage. It was counter productive not to know why she judged her patriotic husband’s choices so harshly. It made her hard to root for.
Sophie stood up for herself once, but was generally selfish and whiny. Even taking her son from the home he knew.
Not my favorite plot or characters, other words by this author are more intriguing.
January 10, 2024
A Beautifully Crafted Love Story
The tragic loss of a spouse can strike a tremendous blow on the survivor, especially when the loss occurs thousands of miles away while deployed in Afghanistan. Lauren never expected to ever feel more grief than she did when Zack's flag-draped casket was rolled off the plane, but she was wrong. The events of the following year would nearly crush her.
Her only hope for survival would be to leave behind the daily reminders in the home they shared and try to heal, so that is what she does. She leases a house for the summer on the water in Cape Cod and heads off with a new puppy named Billy to keep her company. The solitude will give this writer a chance to finish a task she's been struggling with as a ghostwriter.
She couldn't possibly know what is waiting for her that will help heal her heart and write an amazing historical romance novel. Hope you enjoy the story ... I did.
The tragic loss of a spouse can strike a tremendous blow on the survivor, especially when the loss occurs thousands of miles away while deployed in Afghanistan. Lauren never expected to ever feel more grief than she did when Zack's flag-draped casket was rolled off the plane, but she was wrong. The events of the following year would nearly crush her.
Her only hope for survival would be to leave behind the daily reminders in the home they shared and try to heal, so that is what she does. She leases a house for the summer on the water in Cape Cod and heads off with a new puppy named Billy to keep her company. The solitude will give this writer a chance to finish a task she's been struggling with as a ghostwriter.
She couldn't possibly know what is waiting for her that will help heal her heart and write an amazing historical romance novel. Hope you enjoy the story ... I did.
May 6, 2020
5 Star Review for Irina Shapiro Author House on the hill.
Irina Shapiro has once again written a master piece. The House on the Hill is the story of two widows, one from modern day Boston and one from Boston in the 1700’s who’s stories intertwine in the Cape Cod in the House on the Hill known as Holland House. Ryan a local veterinary with a love of history helps Lauren unravel the mystery of Sophie’s life in 1700 Boston and why she haunts her ghost has remained in the House on the hill.
Jessica Nahikian does a great job with the narration. Her performance as both Lauren and Sophie was excellent as she brought the anguish and loss of these two widows to life. Additional Her performance as Teddy was exceptional his love for Sophie came across so real.
Wish there were more stars to give
#irinashapiro #jessicanahikian #house on the hill
Irina Shapiro has once again written a master piece. The House on the Hill is the story of two widows, one from modern day Boston and one from Boston in the 1700’s who’s stories intertwine in the Cape Cod in the House on the Hill known as Holland House. Ryan a local veterinary with a love of history helps Lauren unravel the mystery of Sophie’s life in 1700 Boston and why she haunts her ghost has remained in the House on the hill.
Jessica Nahikian does a great job with the narration. Her performance as both Lauren and Sophie was excellent as she brought the anguish and loss of these two widows to life. Additional Her performance as Teddy was exceptional his love for Sophie came across so real.
Wish there were more stars to give
#irinashapiro #jessicanahikian #house on the hill
October 19, 2021
An intriguing read, albeit a sad one.
I enjoy Irina Shapiro’s books. The way she is able to blend two different timelines into one seamless story is amazing. In this book we have Lauren and Ryan in the present. They have both faced sadness and are looking for a happy future, perhaps together. Lauren is intrigued with Holland House and eager to solve the mystery behind the lonely woman whose ghost visits her bedroom each night. The reader is drawn into the past where we meet Sophie and her love, Teddy. Their story is not a happy one. Filled with heartbreak, intrigue and danger, their lives are constantly in turmoil. I found myself hoping for a happy ending for the two young lovers, knowing they would never have one. For the most part, “House on the Hill” is an engaging book with an engrossing, well developed storyline.
I enjoy Irina Shapiro’s books. The way she is able to blend two different timelines into one seamless story is amazing. In this book we have Lauren and Ryan in the present. They have both faced sadness and are looking for a happy future, perhaps together. Lauren is intrigued with Holland House and eager to solve the mystery behind the lonely woman whose ghost visits her bedroom each night. The reader is drawn into the past where we meet Sophie and her love, Teddy. Their story is not a happy one. Filled with heartbreak, intrigue and danger, their lives are constantly in turmoil. I found myself hoping for a happy ending for the two young lovers, knowing they would never have one. For the most part, “House on the Hill” is an engaging book with an engrossing, well developed storyline.
January 5, 2021
So, so.
Predictable.
The writing and flow feel like she hasn’t been writing for very long. Also, the author writes details about things with which she is unfamiliar, such as the development levels of several children that appear in the book. Some of her conversations occur as if they were in modern times when they are supposed to be from the 1700’s. Another thing is that she will suddenly come out with a word that draws attention to itself, and s if she had recently learned the word and wanted to use it. Once, she used a word that had a completely different meaning from the word she was apparently intending to use.
A plus is that her grammar is much better than many modern writers.
Predictable.
The writing and flow feel like she hasn’t been writing for very long. Also, the author writes details about things with which she is unfamiliar, such as the development levels of several children that appear in the book. Some of her conversations occur as if they were in modern times when they are supposed to be from the 1700’s. Another thing is that she will suddenly come out with a word that draws attention to itself, and s if she had recently learned the word and wanted to use it. Once, she used a word that had a completely different meaning from the word she was apparently intending to use.
A plus is that her grammar is much better than many modern writers.
Read
October 17, 2020Well, what to say. I think it is not a good sign when you have to read the blurb again in order to write a comment here...
Anyway, this is a somewhat dull book, the stories so predictable. And I couldn't understand Lauren, so grieving for her husband but when she reveals the secret in the end I thought sorry??
Sophie's story was disturbing and not happy at all.. so all in all a non-happy-book.
And - sorry, but I couldn't understand the way she treated her puppy dog. Leaving it alone for a whole night?? What if he had to get out? feels lonely... the Doc had a dog, too.. why were they never playing together?
Anyway, this is a somewhat dull book, the stories so predictable. And I couldn't understand Lauren, so grieving for her husband but when she reveals the secret in the end I thought sorry??
Sophie's story was disturbing and not happy at all.. so all in all a non-happy-book.
And - sorry, but I couldn't understand the way she treated her puppy dog. Leaving it alone for a whole night?? What if he had to get out? feels lonely... the Doc had a dog, too.. why were they never playing together?
May 4, 2023
This is a beautifully written love story about two women living centuries apart. Both have endured sadness and suffering in their lives, but the 1700’s is far less kind to poor Sophie than the twenty first century is to Lauren.
It’s difficult to read about the brutal treatment Sophie endures yet the reader understands that in the 1700’s the sad reality is that women lacked the freedom and resources to escape a cruel husband.
Irina Shapiro spins a truly heart rending love story, full of history. I was drawn into the story to the extent that I couldn’t stop reading. You feel the characters’ pain and joy. I’m looking forward to reading more of Ms Shapiro’s books 😊
It’s difficult to read about the brutal treatment Sophie endures yet the reader understands that in the 1700’s the sad reality is that women lacked the freedom and resources to escape a cruel husband.
Irina Shapiro spins a truly heart rending love story, full of history. I was drawn into the story to the extent that I couldn’t stop reading. You feel the characters’ pain and joy. I’m looking forward to reading more of Ms Shapiro’s books 😊
November 15, 2025
The setting of Holland House on Cape Cod is atmospheric and the ghostly elements had promise, but they weren’t particularly scary, more gentle than haunting. While I appreciated the supernatural touches, they lacked the tension I was hoping for.
I also found the romances unconvincing and, frankly, boring. Combined with the very slow pacing, this made it hard to feel connected to the main characters or fully invested in their journeys.
Overall, The House on the Hill is a quiet, romantic ghost story with beautiful descriptions, but for me it lacked the emotional pull and suspense that would have made it truly gripping.
I also found the romances unconvincing and, frankly, boring. Combined with the very slow pacing, this made it hard to feel connected to the main characters or fully invested in their journeys.
Overall, The House on the Hill is a quiet, romantic ghost story with beautiful descriptions, but for me it lacked the emotional pull and suspense that would have made it truly gripping.
August 21, 2024
a good read
i love irinas books usually , but i struggled with this one purely because our heroine had a young choc labrador, too little to even go upstairs, which she completely ignored for hours at a time while she was out, sometimes all night, all i could think of was how cruel she was to leave the dog alone in a haunted house while she went out having fun. i m not sure why the author gave her an adorable puppy which was not included in the story really, only as a prop to meet the boy friend and interact with the ghost
i love irinas books usually , but i struggled with this one purely because our heroine had a young choc labrador, too little to even go upstairs, which she completely ignored for hours at a time while she was out, sometimes all night, all i could think of was how cruel she was to leave the dog alone in a haunted house while she went out having fun. i m not sure why the author gave her an adorable puppy which was not included in the story really, only as a prop to meet the boy friend and interact with the ghost
April 13, 2025
Really enjoyed this book. Had dual storylines that were easy to follow. Find it confusing when other book’s chapters go back in time frequently and jumping back and forth between dates WITH dual storylines. This book was very fluid.
Finally a good story where the characters were not all bat shit crazy with baggage that kept them from having healthy progressive relationships. I have a difficult time with characters sometimes that can never “trust” or “forgive” either themselves or others and are in constant turmoil until the end.
Finally a good story where the characters were not all bat shit crazy with baggage that kept them from having healthy progressive relationships. I have a difficult time with characters sometimes that can never “trust” or “forgive” either themselves or others and are in constant turmoil until the end.
May 19, 2020
Irina Shapiro has written a gem. The House on the Hill is the story of two widows, one from the present Boston and one from Boston in the 1700s .Their story starts when Lauren rents Holland House for the summer. When Lauren's dog is hurt she meets Ryan a local veterinary. With his help Lauren will unravel why Sophie's ghost still haunts the house.
Thanks Irina for another enjoyable book. I look forward to the next.
Thanks Irina for another enjoyable book. I look forward to the next.
December 2, 2020
Not the Ghost story I expected
The book is well written told in two time lines Lauren (present day) Sophie (the past). The focus is on the house that Lauren rents, as she seeks solace after the death of her husband. She sees the Ghost of a young woman which in turn leads her to seek out answers to get ghost. Lauren's story is pretty bland Sophies has far more too it. Good read but I expected spookiness and that was a big let down
The book is well written told in two time lines Lauren (present day) Sophie (the past). The focus is on the house that Lauren rents, as she seeks solace after the death of her husband. She sees the Ghost of a young woman which in turn leads her to seek out answers to get ghost. Lauren's story is pretty bland Sophies has far more too it. Good read but I expected spookiness and that was a big let down
December 26, 2020
A great read when Lauren rents the house on the hill to get away from her apartment in Boston after the loss of her husband Zack and what she had learnt about her husband affair. she meets Ryan after her puppy has an accident he is a veterinarian and take care of her puppy, she see the ghost of Sophie who lived at the house in the 1700, and Lauren tries to find out about Sophie life, I loved how she worked everything out and felt sad for Sophie as she had a hard life.
January 3, 2021
Romantic ghost story
This book wasn't what I expected from a book with "ghost story" in the title and it was definitely more of a romance, which I don't usually read but I really enjoyed this. I quickly became invested with both the main characters and felt the epilogue was a fitting conclusion. Having not read any books by Irina Sharpiro I was unsure of her writing style, but it flowed well and I would certainly consider reading another of her books
This book wasn't what I expected from a book with "ghost story" in the title and it was definitely more of a romance, which I don't usually read but I really enjoyed this. I quickly became invested with both the main characters and felt the epilogue was a fitting conclusion. Having not read any books by Irina Sharpiro I was unsure of her writing style, but it flowed well and I would certainly consider reading another of her books
February 7, 2021
The House on the Hill: A Love Story , Ghost Included
For those of us who love a well written, beautifully developed story this novel hits the mark. I really liked how the author's characters came to life... I wasn't just reading a story, I lived it along side of them. A real eye opener as the time frame relates to the century mentioned. Very well researched and highly recommended. A treasure indeed!
For those of us who love a well written, beautifully developed story this novel hits the mark. I really liked how the author's characters came to life... I wasn't just reading a story, I lived it along side of them. A real eye opener as the time frame relates to the century mentioned. Very well researched and highly recommended. A treasure indeed!
May 11, 2021
I really liked the story of this book. It was intense, exciting, heartbreaking and melancholy, but had a satisfying ending. However, I didn't really need the sex scenes, some of them in the Colonial era were brutal and graphic. I understand that the author needed to show the problem with the couple's marriage, but it was difficult for me to read. All in all, I'd try another book by this author. I really love dual-time lines and the way they all "fit together" at the end.
October 31, 2024
The House on the Hill Becomes The Home on the Hill
Irina Shapiro writes a very satisfying story, populated with characters who change through the course of the plot. Their changes become the story. Some of that story is hard to read. Some of the changes hard to watch. The ghost story is essentially a dual timeline novel. Dual timelines are the hardest to me to write. But resolving both stories is more satisfying. Enjoyed the read!!
Irina Shapiro writes a very satisfying story, populated with characters who change through the course of the plot. Their changes become the story. Some of that story is hard to read. Some of the changes hard to watch. The ghost story is essentially a dual timeline novel. Dual timelines are the hardest to me to write. But resolving both stories is more satisfying. Enjoyed the read!!
May 7, 2020
A fantastic read. Love stories that go back and forth through time. This Author has a very creative way of bringing this story to life. With lots of twists and turns that kept me captivated from start to finish. I could not put this Audio down. And the Narrator brings the different voices through to where I felt like I personally new them. I definitely recommend this Audio.
Shauna Joesten
Shauna Joesten
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