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The Woman in the Attic
On the coast of rural Newfoundland, Hannah Fitzgerald's mother has lived her life in near total isolation. When Hannah returns to the lonely saltbox house to prepare her mother for the transition into assisted living, her childhood home is anything but welcoming. Dilapidated from years of hoarding and neglect, the walls are crumbling, leaving Hannah’s wellness crumbling along with them.
While packing her mother's things, Hannah discovers a trap door to the house’s attic, the one she believed for most of her life had been permanently sealed shut. Blinded by curiosity, Hannah enters the attic and finds a mysterious bedroom riddled with dark secrets. Desperate to know more, Hannah begins to scramble for answers, combing the house for clues that may lead her to the truth.
Hannah must navigate through the violent outbursts of her senile mother, the prying questions of a nosy hospice nurse, and the rage of the coastal wind that threatens the structure of the house. Piece by piece, she assembles a picture of her mother’s not-so-distant past—a twisted tangle of infatuation, lies, and maybe even murder.
The Woman in the Attic is a claustrophobic psychological thriller wrought with suspense. This novel will put you on the edge of your seat . . . and make you wary of the unused spaces collecting dust in your home.
• Winner — Rakuten Kobo Emerging Writer Prize (Mystery)
• Winner — NL Reads 2021
• Gold Medal Winner — Independent Publisher (Canada - East - Regional Fiction)
• Finalist — Crime Writers of Canada Awards (Best First Crime Novel)
• Long-listed — BMO Winterset Award
While packing her mother's things, Hannah discovers a trap door to the house’s attic, the one she believed for most of her life had been permanently sealed shut. Blinded by curiosity, Hannah enters the attic and finds a mysterious bedroom riddled with dark secrets. Desperate to know more, Hannah begins to scramble for answers, combing the house for clues that may lead her to the truth.
Hannah must navigate through the violent outbursts of her senile mother, the prying questions of a nosy hospice nurse, and the rage of the coastal wind that threatens the structure of the house. Piece by piece, she assembles a picture of her mother’s not-so-distant past—a twisted tangle of infatuation, lies, and maybe even murder.
The Woman in the Attic is a claustrophobic psychological thriller wrought with suspense. This novel will put you on the edge of your seat . . . and make you wary of the unused spaces collecting dust in your home.
• Winner — Rakuten Kobo Emerging Writer Prize (Mystery)
• Winner — NL Reads 2021
• Gold Medal Winner — Independent Publisher (Canada - East - Regional Fiction)
• Finalist — Crime Writers of Canada Awards (Best First Crime Novel)
• Long-listed — BMO Winterset Award
230 pages, Paperback
First published April 22, 2020
81 people are currently reading
3144 people want to read
About the author
Emily Hepditch
4 books247 followersEmily Hepditch is an award-winning emerging author from Mount Pearl, Newfoundland. A prolific writer since childhood, Emily’s first publication came in 2015 when her short story Lifelike was published by Nelson Education. Emily received her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Memorial University in 2020, where she studied linguistics, psychology, and criminology. Primarily she writes psychological thrillers that draw on principles of criminology to comment on contemporary issues in society. When she’s not writing novels, Emily is either working on an illustration, running through the park, or hiking the East Coast Trail.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews
July 22, 2024
Why I chose to read this book:
1. after reading some GR friends' reviews a few years ago, I added it to my WTR list;
2. while on a recent vacation in Newfoundland, I realized that I needed more reading material, especially for those long ferry crossings and air flights. I was thrilled to find this particular WTR book in a gift shop: and,
3. July 2024 is my self-appointed "O' Canada" Month (focus: Newfoundland).
Praises:
1. I loved the atmospheric setting! Newfoundland is known for its drizzle, rain, and fog, and author Emily Hepditch definitely portrayed it in this story; and,
2. with an exciting beginning, I was intrigued to find out:
- the strange lack of an emotional bond between Hannah and her mother;
- where was Hannah's father, and what was his role in past and present events? and,
- what secrets did Hannah's childhood home actually hold?
Niggles:
1. at first, I wasn't sure exactly who Colleen was (later, it became clear that she was Adelaide's hired hospice nurse);
2. I couldn't understand why Hannah was so worried about others, especially Colleen, hearing and/or seeing her go into the attic and the basement. It's her childhood home, and the major reason why she returned was to pack up its belongings;
3. I thought a weak reason was given as to why Hannah couldn't come back to the house after her mother was put into a nursing home, thereby searching for secrets in peace; and,
4. it appears editing was done regarding conventions (an issue other readers had), but some repetitive phrasing and redundant characters still exist. Btw, I wish the house was a character in itself!
Overall Thoughts:
Niggles aside, I still looked forward to reading this book. It was a quick read, and a very good attempt for a debut novel. Also, vacationing in Newfoundland made it an extra-special time to delve into this story.
1. after reading some GR friends' reviews a few years ago, I added it to my WTR list;
2. while on a recent vacation in Newfoundland, I realized that I needed more reading material, especially for those long ferry crossings and air flights. I was thrilled to find this particular WTR book in a gift shop: and,
3. July 2024 is my self-appointed "O' Canada" Month (focus: Newfoundland).
Praises:
1. I loved the atmospheric setting! Newfoundland is known for its drizzle, rain, and fog, and author Emily Hepditch definitely portrayed it in this story; and,
2. with an exciting beginning, I was intrigued to find out:
- the strange lack of an emotional bond between Hannah and her mother;
- where was Hannah's father, and what was his role in past and present events? and,
- what secrets did Hannah's childhood home actually hold?
Niggles:
1. at first, I wasn't sure exactly who Colleen was (later, it became clear that she was Adelaide's hired hospice nurse);
2. I couldn't understand why Hannah was so worried about others, especially Colleen, hearing and/or seeing her go into the attic and the basement. It's her childhood home, and the major reason why she returned was to pack up its belongings;
3. I thought a weak reason was given as to why Hannah couldn't come back to the house after her mother was put into a nursing home, thereby searching for secrets in peace; and,
4. it appears editing was done regarding conventions (an issue other readers had), but some repetitive phrasing and redundant characters still exist. Btw, I wish the house was a character in itself!
Overall Thoughts:
Niggles aside, I still looked forward to reading this book. It was a quick read, and a very good attempt for a debut novel. Also, vacationing in Newfoundland made it an extra-special time to delve into this story.
August 29, 2020
A gripping character-driven, heartfelt novel set in a desolate location on the stormy banks of Newfoundland. A terrific first novel by a talented young Newfoundlander and I hope continues her literary career. It shows the effects of extreme isolation while living in a claustrophobic, dirty old house set on the banks of a windswept cliff overlooking a cold, turbulent ocean.
This is a psychological mystery that includes dysfunctional family ties, deceit, control and lack of control, self-doubt, search for identity under extreme danger, and trying to rebuild a shattered life. The lack of acceptance, the necessity of family love, loneliness, and desire for trusting friendships are fundamental in this compelling mystery. 4.5 stars!!
This is a psychological mystery that includes dysfunctional family ties, deceit, control and lack of control, self-doubt, search for identity under extreme danger, and trying to rebuild a shattered life. The lack of acceptance, the necessity of family love, loneliness, and desire for trusting friendships are fundamental in this compelling mystery. 4.5 stars!!
May 10, 2020
I am thrilled to introduce to you all my debut novel, The Woman in the Attic. I had so much fun writing this story, and feel so lucky to get to share it with you. This tale is a fusion of two of my favourite things, Newfoundland and mystery stories.
I really hope you enjoy this story!
I really hope you enjoy this story!
September 6, 2021
Are family ties unbreakable?
Is there a limit for everything, even love? How far your love for someone can go?
These are just a couple of questions that this book will raise. At least those were some of questions I had until the turn of events.
I don’t think that I would be able to cope with the problems that the main character went through. Her mother was diagnosed with dementia at 52! Is that even possible? I had to Google, after all I’m 57 years old and this prospective has never crossed my mind.
This is a terrific debut by a Canadian author.
The writing is so good and the storyline is so compelling.
Written in first person, here we have a beautiful setting of the Canadian east coast. I could almost smell the ocean. How I miss that smell!
The drama and mystery around the main’s character mother is very well developed. Who is Ada Fraser? Who is Adelaide Fitzgerald?
I was hooked from the prologue to the last page. I just couldn’t put it down.
My only complaint is that the book is too short.
I would also have loved some different perspectives. There is a journal/diary to shortly distract us from Hannah’s POV.
There is a twist that I wasn’t very pleased with, as it did take an unexpected turn and I felt cheated. The conclusion was too unrealistic for me. Regardless, this was a very engrossing book.
I’m looking forward to reading her second book, “Alone on the Trail”.
Is there a limit for everything, even love? How far your love for someone can go?
These are just a couple of questions that this book will raise. At least those were some of questions I had until the turn of events.
I don’t think that I would be able to cope with the problems that the main character went through. Her mother was diagnosed with dementia at 52! Is that even possible? I had to Google, after all I’m 57 years old and this prospective has never crossed my mind.
This is a terrific debut by a Canadian author.
The writing is so good and the storyline is so compelling.
Written in first person, here we have a beautiful setting of the Canadian east coast. I could almost smell the ocean. How I miss that smell!
The drama and mystery around the main’s character mother is very well developed. Who is Ada Fraser? Who is Adelaide Fitzgerald?
I was hooked from the prologue to the last page. I just couldn’t put it down.
My only complaint is that the book is too short.
I would also have loved some different perspectives. There is a journal/diary to shortly distract us from Hannah’s POV.
There is a twist that I wasn’t very pleased with, as it did take an unexpected turn and I felt cheated. The conclusion was too unrealistic for me. Regardless, this was a very engrossing book.
I’m looking forward to reading her second book, “Alone on the Trail”.
May 7, 2020
Stop whatever you are doing right now and get a copy of this book!
This spectacular debut novel from Emily Hepditch is so full of twists and turns that it will leave you reeling - in a good way, I promise! The prologue alone gave me shivers and from there on in, honestly, I just could not put it down.
Ms. Hepditch has a very distinct writing style. It feels very natural. Her ability to capture the stark beauty that is Newfoundland in just a few words is enviable. The emotions of our young protagonist Hannah are laid bare for us and we get an intimate look at the life of isolation, and yes, abuse, that she has led up to this point. We get a small taste of what her life could have been had things not taken such a wrong turn. We weep for her, and along with her. Her state of mind, her feelings as she returns to the house and to her mother are all so very authentic. The author has been able to weave a narrative that is poignant yet terrifying, satisfying without being predictable.
I found Ms. Hepditch’s characters to be fresh and very well developed. They each have their own strong sense of self and self-preservation, even Hannah, which is very evident when we first see things start to unravel. The characters are written honestly, they are flawed and imperfect and it takes a certain finesse with words to create a character that is so very “human” and not just a flat description on a page.
The setting in “The Woman in the Attic” is incredible as well: the desolate landscape, the untamed, unpredictable nature of the weather; the once happy home, now simply a vessel for all those deep dark secrets. You really do feel like you are there. I could picture it all so clearly in my mind.
The epilogue – I did not see that coming at all and I found it to be heartfelt and beautifully optimistic, the absolute perfect ending.
This book will stick with me for a long time. I am confident that we will see more from Ms. Hepditch; I feel like she will be a staple on the local writing scene for many, many years to come. Like the wild Newfoundland wind, a force to be reckoned with.
This spectacular debut novel from Emily Hepditch is so full of twists and turns that it will leave you reeling - in a good way, I promise! The prologue alone gave me shivers and from there on in, honestly, I just could not put it down.
Ms. Hepditch has a very distinct writing style. It feels very natural. Her ability to capture the stark beauty that is Newfoundland in just a few words is enviable. The emotions of our young protagonist Hannah are laid bare for us and we get an intimate look at the life of isolation, and yes, abuse, that she has led up to this point. We get a small taste of what her life could have been had things not taken such a wrong turn. We weep for her, and along with her. Her state of mind, her feelings as she returns to the house and to her mother are all so very authentic. The author has been able to weave a narrative that is poignant yet terrifying, satisfying without being predictable.
I found Ms. Hepditch’s characters to be fresh and very well developed. They each have their own strong sense of self and self-preservation, even Hannah, which is very evident when we first see things start to unravel. The characters are written honestly, they are flawed and imperfect and it takes a certain finesse with words to create a character that is so very “human” and not just a flat description on a page.
The setting in “The Woman in the Attic” is incredible as well: the desolate landscape, the untamed, unpredictable nature of the weather; the once happy home, now simply a vessel for all those deep dark secrets. You really do feel like you are there. I could picture it all so clearly in my mind.
The epilogue – I did not see that coming at all and I found it to be heartfelt and beautifully optimistic, the absolute perfect ending.
This book will stick with me for a long time. I am confident that we will see more from Ms. Hepditch; I feel like she will be a staple on the local writing scene for many, many years to come. Like the wild Newfoundland wind, a force to be reckoned with.
July 14, 2020
Disappointed in this one! I wanted to like it but......... In general the characters lacked depth. The plot was interesting but the author didn’t seem to be able to capture that gripping kind of tension that characterizes a psychological thriller. Some of the characters just didn’t add anything to the storyline and I wondered why she even bothered with them. E.g. her professor? And the ending fell flat in my opinion. It seemed that the author lost interest and just wrapped things up as fast as she could.
It wasn’t the blockbuster first novel I had expected but I hope it isn’t the last for this young author. Her idea was a very interesting one and I think she has potential as a writer with a little more experience.
It wasn’t the blockbuster first novel I had expected but I hope it isn’t the last for this young author. Her idea was a very interesting one and I think she has potential as a writer with a little more experience.
May 25, 2020
This book is simply fantastic. I honestly can not find a ounce of critique. Being a Newfounlander who grew up in a small rural town, I can truly say she has truly captured the aesthetic of our province. Keep it up, Emily Hepditch, I will buy whatever you put out. Ill be waiting eagerly for your next book.
October 14, 2021
Wow, what a great debut novel by a new author from Newfoundland. In this book, 23 yr old Hannah travels from her university in Mount Pearl, to her childhood home which is in a remote location along the cliffs. She's going to help her mother - who is suffering from dementia - move out of the house and get settled in a rest home. She has no idea what's truly waiting for her once she starts cleaning out the house.
The atmosphere is intense. The author does a lot with one small house and 2-3 main characters. This book was hard to put down. It's a great first Halloween read for me. It's so good that I just ordered the author's 2nd book today.
The atmosphere is intense. The author does a lot with one small house and 2-3 main characters. This book was hard to put down. It's a great first Halloween read for me. It's so good that I just ordered the author's 2nd book today.
October 8, 2021
This book is published by Flanker Press in Newfoundland. Possibly the first book I’ve read from this publisher.
The title of this book instantly reminded me of “The Woman in the Window by A. J. Finn. Wondering if that was deliberate?
This book is by an emerging young Newfoundland writer in her early 20s. It is a psychological mystery.
I must say that I was a bit shocked when I first came upon the uncapitalized i. Thinking it was just a one of mistake, but soon found there were quite a few more to follow. Then there were several incidents of a period in place of a comma and the beginning of the next sentence uncapitalized. These seemed a bit careless in the editing from a traditional publisher.
I loved the first half of this book!
I liked the mystery; the difficult mother daughter relationship and the many twists and turns. This all had me thinking I would give this book one of my rare 5-star ratings. But the further I read, the more that changed.
The section of the Diary was all in italics and it was just way too long and not only in wording, but to be in italics. It might have been better broken up or done in a different font, something easier to read for a long stretch.
It was at that point in the book that I felt it became a different story. Or do I not fully understand this genre?
The story took off very fast-paced and I could no longer read as much at one time as I had before. It was exhausting. I felt burned out by all the action or possibly that the story was no longer as interesting as it had first been.
I also didn’t feel it was 1998 or even twenty years earlier when other parts of the story took place. It seemed much further back in time, not sure why.
Better editing was needed. And I didn’t care for the somewhat “fairy tale” ending.
The title of this book instantly reminded me of “The Woman in the Window by A. J. Finn. Wondering if that was deliberate?
This book is by an emerging young Newfoundland writer in her early 20s. It is a psychological mystery.
I must say that I was a bit shocked when I first came upon the uncapitalized i. Thinking it was just a one of mistake, but soon found there were quite a few more to follow. Then there were several incidents of a period in place of a comma and the beginning of the next sentence uncapitalized. These seemed a bit careless in the editing from a traditional publisher.
I loved the first half of this book!
I liked the mystery; the difficult mother daughter relationship and the many twists and turns. This all had me thinking I would give this book one of my rare 5-star ratings. But the further I read, the more that changed.
The section of the Diary was all in italics and it was just way too long and not only in wording, but to be in italics. It might have been better broken up or done in a different font, something easier to read for a long stretch.
It was at that point in the book that I felt it became a different story. Or do I not fully understand this genre?
The story took off very fast-paced and I could no longer read as much at one time as I had before. It was exhausting. I felt burned out by all the action or possibly that the story was no longer as interesting as it had first been.
I also didn’t feel it was 1998 or even twenty years earlier when other parts of the story took place. It seemed much further back in time, not sure why.
Better editing was needed. And I didn’t care for the somewhat “fairy tale” ending.
February 12, 2022
I don't normally read thrillers, but the setting of this one appealed to me. When Hannah returns to her childhood home, an isolated saltbox house set atop a cliff along the south coast of Newfoundland, she expects to spend a difficult few days preparing to move her dementia stricken mother into a care home. What should have been an unpleasant, but straightforward job turns into a lot more when she discovers an attic room she didn't know existed, and begins to question who her reclusive mother actually is. At one point I asked myself what on earth I was doing reading a genre I don't like, and then I kept reading an hour past my bed time and loved every minute of it. This is the author's first novel, and it was published by an obscure publishing house. It definitely needs more editing, but even in its unpolished state it kept my attention. I think we can expect more great reads from Emily Hepditch in the future.
May 5, 2020
“My dad and mom were never together, and for most of my life, my father was absent from my life. Growing up, I considered him like a groundhog. Sometimes he’d show up at random and decide how the next few months would go for me. Others he just stayed buried”.
wow, this book had me hooked from the start. I read a sample on ibooks and when it was finished i just bought the book that way. I read it really in one day and I just could not put the book down. It was eerie, creepy and the description of the house, I could just imagine it. I also love reading stories about Newfoundland, you just picture yourself there more because we live here. Hannah was a great main character and she faced so many challenges mentally due to her mother. I was really on edge the entire time but at the same time this book was creepy it was heartwarming.
SPOILER
I cried a little at the end when she reunited with her mom after all these years, the locket and finding her grandfather
wow, this book had me hooked from the start. I read a sample on ibooks and when it was finished i just bought the book that way. I read it really in one day and I just could not put the book down. It was eerie, creepy and the description of the house, I could just imagine it. I also love reading stories about Newfoundland, you just picture yourself there more because we live here. Hannah was a great main character and she faced so many challenges mentally due to her mother. I was really on edge the entire time but at the same time this book was creepy it was heartwarming.
SPOILER
I cried a little at the end when she reunited with her mom after all these years, the locket and finding her grandfather
September 22, 2022
This took an unexpected turn in the plot which I didn't see coming - a really strong debut from a young Canadian author. I'm looking forward to seeing what Hepditch does next!
May 6, 2023
Pretty good book for a young author. It did move along and keep you guessing. A quick read too.
April 26, 2020
This book captivated me from the start and it was such a challenge to put it down. Emily has a way with words, the descriptions of the house and its surroundings made me feel like I was there. She also has a knack for creepiness, I could feel the hairs on the back of my neck standing up at some points. As the mystery unraveled I felt like I was there with the main character, I could feel her anxiety, feel her fear. The Woman in the Attic was such a tremendous read and one that will stay with me for a long time. ❤️
December 17, 2020
I wanted to like it, but unfortunately I just couldn’t get into it. While I didn’t see the ‘twist’ coming, I’m just never a fan of a book written in the constant and repetitive internal ramblings of the main character. I just felt it was a very juvenile and disjointed plot. I do think the author captured the imagery of the setting well.
July 27, 2021
3.5 *
I think Emily Hepditch has a wonderful writing style. I was engrossed in this novel from the beginning. A smooth and fast-paced read. Clear and descriptive.
Unfortunately, the big reveal was a little lack lustre for me. Too many crazy women and too convenient in the way it transpired.
Nevertheless, it was great writing and I look forward to Hepditch’s next publication.
I think Emily Hepditch has a wonderful writing style. I was engrossed in this novel from the beginning. A smooth and fast-paced read. Clear and descriptive.
Unfortunately, the big reveal was a little lack lustre for me. Too many crazy women and too convenient in the way it transpired.
Nevertheless, it was great writing and I look forward to Hepditch’s next publication.
December 23, 2020
This is a debut novel from a fellow Newfoundlander and it takes place in an isolated community on the shores of the angry North Atlantic ocean. I can totally relate to the descriptions of NL, especially the storms and the not so great driving conditions lol! I'm not usually a fan of mysteries, but I was engaged in the story and happily did not predict the ending.
July 4, 2020
I really liked this book! Enjoyed the quick pace and how the authors descriptive and accurate setting of isolated NL makes the story that much more convincing and believable. Loved the twist!
December 31, 2020
Perhaps three stars as a thriller, but four stars overall as Hannah’s story was engaging with a satisfying ending. This is my second book for NL Reads 2021.
November 16, 2020
I couldn’t help it. Before I cracked the cover of The Woman in the Attic [Flanker Press] two things popped into my noggin.
Firstly, the farmhouse in Andrew Wyeth’s painting “Christina’s World” and secondly, Bertha Mason, “the first Mrs. Rochester” who — because she’s been deemed crazy — is barred in a room on the third floor of Thornfield Hall in Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre.
Talk about initial reactions, eh b’ys?
Neither of my first impressions has much to do with the particulars of Woman in the Attic except the book features an old saltbox house on a barren headland, inside which there is an attic where someone …
… well, you’ll get to that when you read this novel.
In the Prologue a woman buries a metal box in the presence of a child whom she warns to “knock off” her wailing. When the toddler touches the box, the woman snaps at her — “Stop touching that thing. Last thing you need now is blood on your hands.”
If the storyteller were an angler and you a curious, famished trout, the baited barb would now be snagged in your lower lip — hooked! (Fear not, storytelling is a catch and release experience. Following the Epilogue, you’ll be set free — except for mixed memories, I s’pose.)
Yes, Prologue and Epilogue bracketing a story chock-a-block with intrigue, such as …
Really, you expect spoilers?
This story reflects on olden times — 1998, for frig sake! (Emily, my duck, I don’t suppose it matters to you how aged you’ve made this old scribbler feel.)
Emily Hepditch is a young crackerjack. I say this with due respect. At a youthful age — comparable with the age when I ceased applying little dabs of Brylcreem to my topknot — she has written this gem-dandy novel.
Okay. Alright. A synopsis.
Hannah Fitzgerald returns to her outport home — located miles from Loostab, the nearest town of any significant size — to fetch her ailing mother and transport her to a personal care facility.
Since you insist, spoiler alert.
At her childhood home, Hannah climbs into the attic and finds — guess what? A “tickle trunk”. (Emily, no doubt, is an acolyte of Mr. Dressup.)
That’s right. An old trunk … with a bloody jacket concealed beneath its lid.
Oh, and elsewhere there might be a journal, or Polaroid snaps, or letters — perhaps even a gun — to be discovered later.
That’s it. No more telling.
Hannah’s old home, reminiscent of the farmhouse in Wyeth’s painting (Did you think I’d forgotten?), stands on an isolated headland, pretty much on the edge of treacherous cliffs where danger is always impending.
Here’s a thought: all of us live on the edges of cliffs. Tragically, any of us could slip and fall in the bat of an eye. Perish the thought.
You won’t believe the thought that just flashed behind my peepers. (Blame Netflix, perhaps, where I recently watched Rebecca.) I’ve remembered Mrs. Danvers, the malicious housekeeper of Manderley. Manderley, an isolated manor not totally unlike Thornfield Hall or Hannah’s weathered saltbox, eh b’ys?
Colleen is the caregiver/housekeeper in this novel.
And there’s a cast-iron frying pan — ideal for squashing rodents, among other things.
And there’s a rolling pin.
I’m chucking down my pen, so to speak, before I “slip” and reveal all.
Finally, a promise — at times Woman in the Attic will give you the shivers.
Thank you for reading.
— Harold Walters lives in Dunville, Newfoundland, doing his damnedest to live Happily Ever After. Reach him at ghwalters663@gmail.com
Firstly, the farmhouse in Andrew Wyeth’s painting “Christina’s World” and secondly, Bertha Mason, “the first Mrs. Rochester” who — because she’s been deemed crazy — is barred in a room on the third floor of Thornfield Hall in Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre.
Talk about initial reactions, eh b’ys?
Neither of my first impressions has much to do with the particulars of Woman in the Attic except the book features an old saltbox house on a barren headland, inside which there is an attic where someone …
… well, you’ll get to that when you read this novel.
In the Prologue a woman buries a metal box in the presence of a child whom she warns to “knock off” her wailing. When the toddler touches the box, the woman snaps at her — “Stop touching that thing. Last thing you need now is blood on your hands.”
If the storyteller were an angler and you a curious, famished trout, the baited barb would now be snagged in your lower lip — hooked! (Fear not, storytelling is a catch and release experience. Following the Epilogue, you’ll be set free — except for mixed memories, I s’pose.)
Yes, Prologue and Epilogue bracketing a story chock-a-block with intrigue, such as …
Really, you expect spoilers?
This story reflects on olden times — 1998, for frig sake! (Emily, my duck, I don’t suppose it matters to you how aged you’ve made this old scribbler feel.)
Emily Hepditch is a young crackerjack. I say this with due respect. At a youthful age — comparable with the age when I ceased applying little dabs of Brylcreem to my topknot — she has written this gem-dandy novel.
Okay. Alright. A synopsis.
Hannah Fitzgerald returns to her outport home — located miles from Loostab, the nearest town of any significant size — to fetch her ailing mother and transport her to a personal care facility.
Since you insist, spoiler alert.
At her childhood home, Hannah climbs into the attic and finds — guess what? A “tickle trunk”. (Emily, no doubt, is an acolyte of Mr. Dressup.)
That’s right. An old trunk … with a bloody jacket concealed beneath its lid.
Oh, and elsewhere there might be a journal, or Polaroid snaps, or letters — perhaps even a gun — to be discovered later.
That’s it. No more telling.
Hannah’s old home, reminiscent of the farmhouse in Wyeth’s painting (Did you think I’d forgotten?), stands on an isolated headland, pretty much on the edge of treacherous cliffs where danger is always impending.
Here’s a thought: all of us live on the edges of cliffs. Tragically, any of us could slip and fall in the bat of an eye. Perish the thought.
You won’t believe the thought that just flashed behind my peepers. (Blame Netflix, perhaps, where I recently watched Rebecca.) I’ve remembered Mrs. Danvers, the malicious housekeeper of Manderley. Manderley, an isolated manor not totally unlike Thornfield Hall or Hannah’s weathered saltbox, eh b’ys?
Colleen is the caregiver/housekeeper in this novel.
And there’s a cast-iron frying pan — ideal for squashing rodents, among other things.
And there’s a rolling pin.
I’m chucking down my pen, so to speak, before I “slip” and reveal all.
Finally, a promise — at times Woman in the Attic will give you the shivers.
Thank you for reading.
— Harold Walters lives in Dunville, Newfoundland, doing his damnedest to live Happily Ever After. Reach him at ghwalters663@gmail.com
September 21, 2021
This one was a nice quick read. I picked it up hoping to have it done before the book I was waiting for was released on the 21st, and finished it 11pm on thr 20th.
A nice and quick read, lots of super cool twists that weren't entirely evident, though the main "secret" was super obvious the entire time. Enjoyed the NL scenery involved as well.
A lot of seemingly useless characters however, like Hannah's professor, and Matt. And while I enjoyed the quickness of the read, I found the climax and conclusion to be super quick. Most of the novel was spent building, and once the climax hit I almost got the feeling that the author was bored now, and wanted to finish up as quickly as possible without leaving loose ends.
Overall an enjoyable read, and a solid 4 ⭐ experience.
A nice and quick read, lots of super cool twists that weren't entirely evident, though the main "secret" was super obvious the entire time. Enjoyed the NL scenery involved as well.
A lot of seemingly useless characters however, like Hannah's professor, and Matt. And while I enjoyed the quickness of the read, I found the climax and conclusion to be super quick. Most of the novel was spent building, and once the climax hit I almost got the feeling that the author was bored now, and wanted to finish up as quickly as possible without leaving loose ends.
Overall an enjoyable read, and a solid 4 ⭐ experience.
April 5, 2021
The Woman in the Attic is a psychological mystery and debut novel from a local author, Emily Hepditch.
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The author does an amazing job capturing the picturesque setting of a rural town on the rugged coastline of Newfoundland. While reading, I felt like I could smell the salt water air, and feel the breeze off the ocean!
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I was able to piece together clues leading up to the big plot twist, but that didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story. I look forward to reading what Emily Hepditch comes out with in the future!
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The author does an amazing job capturing the picturesque setting of a rural town on the rugged coastline of Newfoundland. While reading, I felt like I could smell the salt water air, and feel the breeze off the ocean!
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I was able to piece together clues leading up to the big plot twist, but that didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story. I look forward to reading what Emily Hepditch comes out with in the future!
August 10, 2021
I had seen a lot of hype for this local novel and was excited when it was chosen for our book club.
I had assumed part of the twist early on in the book but I enjoyed some of the extra surprises that came towards the end.
However, I feel that the climax was just a bit… anti-climactic? And incredibly short. I wanted it drawn out a bit more, I wanted to root a bit longer for our protagonist.
I think this was a well-written debut novel and I’m excited to see what her second book has in store.
I had assumed part of the twist early on in the book but I enjoyed some of the extra surprises that came towards the end.
However, I feel that the climax was just a bit… anti-climactic? And incredibly short. I wanted it drawn out a bit more, I wanted to root a bit longer for our protagonist.
I think this was a well-written debut novel and I’m excited to see what her second book has in store.
May 11, 2023
I thought the story had an interesting premise. However it did drag in the telling. The storyline was complicated but I didn’t find it compelling. I think there was potential for much more here.
June 11, 2023
Very satisfying. I was going to give it four stars as I noticed a few mistakes along the way / but they weren’t enough to get in the way of the overall experience. Congratulations Emily. I’m very impressed (and looking forward to working with you 😉).
May 7, 2020
The first half of the book is actually quite good, a mystery that Hannah wants/needs to unravel as much as the reader wants her to. Dementia, a house in the middle of nowhere in Newfoundland, storms, power outages, a mystery in the attic, so may suspenseful leads. As Hannah gets closer to the truth, the story starts to falter and ends in predictability and I am once again reminded of why I don't care for suspense novels. Ms. Hepditch shows promise, however.
November 26, 2023
I was torn on this one. 3.5 is fair.
May 16, 2023
Living close to Newfoundland, I love that this book was set in a place I am familiar with. The story was intriguing and kept me interested
January 17, 2021
On the coast of rural Newfoundland, Hannah Fitzgerald's mother has lived her life in near total isolation. When Hannah returns to the lonely saltbox house to prepare her mother for the transition into assisted living, her childhood home is anything but welcoming. Dilapidated from years of hoarding and neglect, the walls are crumbling, leaving Hannah’s wellness crumbling along with them.
While packing her mother's things, Hannah discovers a trap door to the house’s attic, the one she believed for most of her life had been permanently sealed shut. Blinded by curiosity, Hannah enters the attic and finds a mysterious bedroom riddled with dark secrets. Desperate to know more, Hannah begins to scramble for answers, combing the house for clues that may lead her to the truth.
Hannah must navigate through the violent outbursts of her senile mother, the prying questions of a nosy hospice nurse, and the rage of the coastal wind that threatens the structure of the house. Piece by piece, she assembles a picture of her mother’s not-so-distant past—a twisted tangle of infatuation, lies, and maybe even murder.
I figured out most of the end by halfway through but it was still a great story. I liked the main character, Hannah, but I didn't like all of her choices. I think part of the reason I liked this story so much was because I did not have a good relationship with my mother either so I could relate to how Hannah felt in a lot of ways. It's a well told story and I certainly recommend it.
While packing her mother's things, Hannah discovers a trap door to the house’s attic, the one she believed for most of her life had been permanently sealed shut. Blinded by curiosity, Hannah enters the attic and finds a mysterious bedroom riddled with dark secrets. Desperate to know more, Hannah begins to scramble for answers, combing the house for clues that may lead her to the truth.
Hannah must navigate through the violent outbursts of her senile mother, the prying questions of a nosy hospice nurse, and the rage of the coastal wind that threatens the structure of the house. Piece by piece, she assembles a picture of her mother’s not-so-distant past—a twisted tangle of infatuation, lies, and maybe even murder.
I figured out most of the end by halfway through but it was still a great story. I liked the main character, Hannah, but I didn't like all of her choices. I think part of the reason I liked this story so much was because I did not have a good relationship with my mother either so I could relate to how Hannah felt in a lot of ways. It's a well told story and I certainly recommend it.
October 18, 2020
I had such high hopes for this book. I was so excited to start reading it and planned on finishing it in a day or two. However, a few pages in, and I became bored and frustrated with the writing. Repetitive use of the same words in a sentence and different variations of the same sentence in a paragraph are my pet peeves. But I think that falls on the editor, in part. There was so much opportunity here, to make the reader feel as if we were actually in and old, desolate, salt box house on the lonely coast of Newfoundland. I wanted to FEEL the suffocating fog, the wind, the loneliness and isolation. The way I did when reading “The Shipping News” by Annie Proulx. Or when I read “Wuthering Heights” and felt like Cathy, lost on the Moors. Instead, I felt as if I were reading descriptions written by a junior high school student. There was no depth, no development. Even the house, supposedly lived in by a hoarder, should have made me feel as if I could smell it, taste the dirt and grime on my lips, feel the sticky, filthy floors and surfaces while being suffocated by stacks and piles of junk and garbage. I feel that the house itself, should have been a main character. But none of these things happened for me.
Anyways, the plot was good, once the twist was revealed. But again, it was underdeveloped. It lacked tension and buildup.
Anyways, the plot was good, once the twist was revealed. But again, it was underdeveloped. It lacked tension and buildup.
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