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Delevan House
Delevan House is a brazenly executed contemporary story that brings fresh blood to the genres and timelines it crosses; breathing life into folklore and horror fantasy.
Set in the village of Badb, the hulking majesty of Delevan House has eyes everywhere, reflecting secrets of the old ways that are a necessary evil for survival.
This seductive and sophisticated gothic tale is rooted in Scottish folklore, dark history, and what we all desire – freedom.
Delevan House is where literal worlds collide.
Lady Lenore Delevan is waiting.
Do you dare enter under the eyes of her menacing stone beast and obsidian flock?
Set in the village of Badb, the hulking majesty of Delevan House has eyes everywhere, reflecting secrets of the old ways that are a necessary evil for survival.
This seductive and sophisticated gothic tale is rooted in Scottish folklore, dark history, and what we all desire – freedom.
Delevan House is where literal worlds collide.
Lady Lenore Delevan is waiting.
Do you dare enter under the eyes of her menacing stone beast and obsidian flock?
- GenresHorror
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2023
2 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Natasha Sinclair
58 books24 followers‘Audacious stories marinated in macabre, magic and mayhem.’
From the heart of Scotland, Natasha Sinclair is an independent writer, editor and artist. Working under her brand ‘Clan Witch’ for her creative endeavours and ‘Word Refinery’ for editorial works.
Her writing is often woven with horror, sex and psychological elements. She loves to frolic in the darkness with folklore and the macabre and rich history of her homeland.
Art is unrestrained freedom, as is how storytellers choose to wield the fluid movement and global diversity of language to carve captivating and authentic tales that woe, excite or terrorise an audience. Sinclair passionately embraces that, painting original characters with true form, dialect and depth. The devil is in the details.
She is the co-conspirator of ‘Brazen Folk Horror’ with her writing partner, Ruthann Jagge. The Brazen Folk Horror duo’s debut collaborative novel, ‘Delevan House’ releases in February 2023.
Sinclair is a member of The Horror Writers Association (HWA) and The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP).
From the heart of Scotland, Natasha Sinclair is an independent writer, editor and artist. Working under her brand ‘Clan Witch’ for her creative endeavours and ‘Word Refinery’ for editorial works.
Her writing is often woven with horror, sex and psychological elements. She loves to frolic in the darkness with folklore and the macabre and rich history of her homeland.
Art is unrestrained freedom, as is how storytellers choose to wield the fluid movement and global diversity of language to carve captivating and authentic tales that woe, excite or terrorise an audience. Sinclair passionately embraces that, painting original characters with true form, dialect and depth. The devil is in the details.
She is the co-conspirator of ‘Brazen Folk Horror’ with her writing partner, Ruthann Jagge. The Brazen Folk Horror duo’s debut collaborative novel, ‘Delevan House’ releases in February 2023.
Sinclair is a member of The Horror Writers Association (HWA) and The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP).
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 19, 2023
So, where to start well? Not only is this book beautifully presented. But its contents are a rare treat, the magnitude of Delevan House is described so elegantly with an air of mystery that sits with you. Lulling you into a false sense of security, with the sheer gothic grandeur in the prologue. You aren't dragged into this book kicking and screaming, you are entranced and lured into it.
Right from the get-go, you are taking a tour of this majestic and eerie place. The book flows like a map as you take a tour of the manor before visiting the village. How it's described with the fumes of sulfur and molten iron, really feels like the UK version of silent hill and I love it.
Crows are super intelligent and known to bring trinkets to those who regularly feed them. So I loved that little nugget of information slipped in there as well as giving each bird a personality of its own. I loved the birthing scene of Caoimhe, as it shows the pure power of childbirth. You see the grueling pain that Lenore endures and how this affects the creatures that guard her so fiercely. Then as the story continues we learn of the Mistress of Delevan Manor and her 'impossible' child. Her longing to be free from prison not of her doing, trapped within the confined of the grounds never to leave. Like any young woman, longing to grow up and move forward into adulthood.
I loved how the words reflected an old folk tale, a piece of history passed on through the ages. But of course, the relationship between Grant Sutherland and Caoimhe is captivating. But also heartbreaking, it is almost like he is an unwilling prison guard who has fallen in love with the prisoner. Unaware that the very same prisoner outdated him by a substantial amount of years. As with any folk horror, there is always a twist and the events of steamy love lead to the true revelation of what lives inside Caoimhe. As time goes on through the chapters we follow the journey of Jenna McCray to see how the past affects the present. After losing her job due to an entitled asshat, she then works for and also screws that very same asshat. Before he screws her in more ways than one which finally makes her come to her senses. Jenna leaves taking herself and the very same necklace, which happens to be a Delevan heirloom unknown to her, and heading off to Scotland.
Of course, she ends up in the very same neck of the woods as our two characters from the beginning. As soon as Grant Sutherland and Caoimhe enter the picture and meet Jenna, you just know things won't end well.
Weaving through the main story, the girls have done an amazing job at creating an intense tale of revenge, passion, and bloodlust. The further we go into the story, the more I get why Lenore hates the villagers and locked away Caoimhe. The story becomes more enticing and brutal, plus DAMN GUYS those intense steamy sex scenes. These ladies sure know how to write and saucy encounters, man even I didn't need the heating on after a while. I loved the way that it almost felt like a cross between fantasy folklore mixed with vampire horror. Plus the whole vengeful succubus vibe had me hooked and very interested.
The characters are so well-fleshed out, that they are practically standing in front of you. The atmosphere as a whole is insane, especially when Jenna goes with Caoimhe to Badb. The relationship between mother and daughter is simply heartbreaking and I feel so horrible for what Lenore has been forced to endure. However, I think for me Caomihe is a tiny bit of a badass, and the way her presence is carried through every chapter is so well done. Then you have the split in personality, as she fights the dark desire burning deep inside of her. This story has everything and so much more, it also proves how well Natasha and Ruth work together. They knew what they were planning, they executed that plan and made one hell of a story to the point where I forgot that two authors created this story. The bloodshed and pain is not just something you read, it's also something you feel. That is how well it all flows and blends together, a very hard skill to master that comes as naturally as breathing to these ladies. Flowing from one timeline into another but still keeping the core plot intact, oh, I really enjoyed this book and I believe it's time you took a visit yourself. Now before the true Goddesses of Delevan House.
Right from the get-go, you are taking a tour of this majestic and eerie place. The book flows like a map as you take a tour of the manor before visiting the village. How it's described with the fumes of sulfur and molten iron, really feels like the UK version of silent hill and I love it.
Crows are super intelligent and known to bring trinkets to those who regularly feed them. So I loved that little nugget of information slipped in there as well as giving each bird a personality of its own. I loved the birthing scene of Caoimhe, as it shows the pure power of childbirth. You see the grueling pain that Lenore endures and how this affects the creatures that guard her so fiercely. Then as the story continues we learn of the Mistress of Delevan Manor and her 'impossible' child. Her longing to be free from prison not of her doing, trapped within the confined of the grounds never to leave. Like any young woman, longing to grow up and move forward into adulthood.
I loved how the words reflected an old folk tale, a piece of history passed on through the ages. But of course, the relationship between Grant Sutherland and Caoimhe is captivating. But also heartbreaking, it is almost like he is an unwilling prison guard who has fallen in love with the prisoner. Unaware that the very same prisoner outdated him by a substantial amount of years. As with any folk horror, there is always a twist and the events of steamy love lead to the true revelation of what lives inside Caoimhe. As time goes on through the chapters we follow the journey of Jenna McCray to see how the past affects the present. After losing her job due to an entitled asshat, she then works for and also screws that very same asshat. Before he screws her in more ways than one which finally makes her come to her senses. Jenna leaves taking herself and the very same necklace, which happens to be a Delevan heirloom unknown to her, and heading off to Scotland.
Of course, she ends up in the very same neck of the woods as our two characters from the beginning. As soon as Grant Sutherland and Caoimhe enter the picture and meet Jenna, you just know things won't end well.
Weaving through the main story, the girls have done an amazing job at creating an intense tale of revenge, passion, and bloodlust. The further we go into the story, the more I get why Lenore hates the villagers and locked away Caoimhe. The story becomes more enticing and brutal, plus DAMN GUYS those intense steamy sex scenes. These ladies sure know how to write and saucy encounters, man even I didn't need the heating on after a while. I loved the way that it almost felt like a cross between fantasy folklore mixed with vampire horror. Plus the whole vengeful succubus vibe had me hooked and very interested.
The characters are so well-fleshed out, that they are practically standing in front of you. The atmosphere as a whole is insane, especially when Jenna goes with Caoimhe to Badb. The relationship between mother and daughter is simply heartbreaking and I feel so horrible for what Lenore has been forced to endure. However, I think for me Caomihe is a tiny bit of a badass, and the way her presence is carried through every chapter is so well done. Then you have the split in personality, as she fights the dark desire burning deep inside of her. This story has everything and so much more, it also proves how well Natasha and Ruth work together. They knew what they were planning, they executed that plan and made one hell of a story to the point where I forgot that two authors created this story. The bloodshed and pain is not just something you read, it's also something you feel. That is how well it all flows and blends together, a very hard skill to master that comes as naturally as breathing to these ladies. Flowing from one timeline into another but still keeping the core plot intact, oh, I really enjoyed this book and I believe it's time you took a visit yourself. Now before the true Goddesses of Delevan House.
February 2, 2023
Delevan House by Ruthann Jagge and Natasha Sinclair is fantastic!
Writing a book and writing it well takes a lot of hard work and determination. Co-writing even more so. But when one of the authors hails from Texas and the other lives in Scotland - what they have achieved here is no mean feat.
The opening prologue is a beautiful written introduction to the story that (and the world it exists in) reads like an old fable - in a time when stories were read out loud and shared by an open fire. It felt both magical and enchanting.
The story starts small but grows and builds along the way. And just when you think it can’t get any bigger, any bolder, you are then taken to another corner of this delightfully horrifying universe.
This story is epic!
The ebb and flow of the pace has been thoroughly considered and superbly crafted. The world and the characters within this deliciously dark tale are detailed with the perfect amount of colour, shape, texture, sound, smell, and taste. You could almost say this book reads like a 4D immersive experience.
The characters are rich and diverse in personality and backstory, yet the authors have allowed for growth and plenty of drama.
In my opinion, multiple time frames/flashbacks can be overused a lot in contemporary storytelling both in books and film/TV. Which I often find that, if not done well, can often slow down a story and feel quite jarring. This doesn’t happen at all with Delevan House. And let me tell you - some of the imagery conjured here is both vivid and evocative in so many different ways it makes for one hell of an exciting journey. Scary, sad, erotic, exciting, empowering are just a few of the things you are likely to experience as you journey into the town of Badb.
As for the finale - all I can say with no spoilers is…
It doesn’t disappoint!
If Delevan House is the first in a trilogy, then I cannot wait to read book 2: The Delevan Diaries (out later this year).
A triumph! 5/5.
Writing a book and writing it well takes a lot of hard work and determination. Co-writing even more so. But when one of the authors hails from Texas and the other lives in Scotland - what they have achieved here is no mean feat.
The opening prologue is a beautiful written introduction to the story that (and the world it exists in) reads like an old fable - in a time when stories were read out loud and shared by an open fire. It felt both magical and enchanting.
The story starts small but grows and builds along the way. And just when you think it can’t get any bigger, any bolder, you are then taken to another corner of this delightfully horrifying universe.
This story is epic!
The ebb and flow of the pace has been thoroughly considered and superbly crafted. The world and the characters within this deliciously dark tale are detailed with the perfect amount of colour, shape, texture, sound, smell, and taste. You could almost say this book reads like a 4D immersive experience.
The characters are rich and diverse in personality and backstory, yet the authors have allowed for growth and plenty of drama.
In my opinion, multiple time frames/flashbacks can be overused a lot in contemporary storytelling both in books and film/TV. Which I often find that, if not done well, can often slow down a story and feel quite jarring. This doesn’t happen at all with Delevan House. And let me tell you - some of the imagery conjured here is both vivid and evocative in so many different ways it makes for one hell of an exciting journey. Scary, sad, erotic, exciting, empowering are just a few of the things you are likely to experience as you journey into the town of Badb.
As for the finale - all I can say with no spoilers is…
It doesn’t disappoint!
If Delevan House is the first in a trilogy, then I cannot wait to read book 2: The Delevan Diaries (out later this year).
A triumph! 5/5.
January 28, 2023
Delevan House is a dark fantasy horror that leans heavily on folk tales, mysticism, and lore. The village of Badb is a place with many secrets including a blood pact that has been in place for hundreds of years. Each generation does what was expected of their ancestors and continues to hold true to the pact. They must obey or else!
Badb is an iron town with blacksmiths that are known for their impressive skills. It is a closed society and rarely gets visitors from the outside world. Lenore Delevan is a witch who lives in the great house that no one from town dares to visit. She and her daughter are of pure Fae and reap the benefits of their ancient blood line. The villagers know, the familiars are always watching their every move.
Delevan House is a story with such a rich tapestry that intertwines the past and present together. The authors take us back and forth in time, giving us a little more detail into the magic and folklore of the old world. This powerful storytelling duo made me feel transported through time, experiencing the emotions, the scents, the pain, and of course the magic as it was unfolding.
The world they have created has lured me in ever so gently until I was hooked and did not want to let go! I loved this story! Both authors did a superb job and this book is already one of the best I’ve read this year! I am so excited that this will be a trilogy and looking forward to what they conjure next! If you like dark fantasy and folk horror, go get this book! You won’t regret it!
Badb is an iron town with blacksmiths that are known for their impressive skills. It is a closed society and rarely gets visitors from the outside world. Lenore Delevan is a witch who lives in the great house that no one from town dares to visit. She and her daughter are of pure Fae and reap the benefits of their ancient blood line. The villagers know, the familiars are always watching their every move.
Delevan House is a story with such a rich tapestry that intertwines the past and present together. The authors take us back and forth in time, giving us a little more detail into the magic and folklore of the old world. This powerful storytelling duo made me feel transported through time, experiencing the emotions, the scents, the pain, and of course the magic as it was unfolding.
The world they have created has lured me in ever so gently until I was hooked and did not want to let go! I loved this story! Both authors did a superb job and this book is already one of the best I’ve read this year! I am so excited that this will be a trilogy and looking forward to what they conjure next! If you like dark fantasy and folk horror, go get this book! You won’t regret it!
February 1, 2023
Develan House, well what can I say I absolutely loved it. This book is a collaboration from two very talented author's. This is an outstanding read which grabs you and keeps a tight hold then intertwines you into the world of Develan House and the village of Badb and it's character's in this superb Gothic horror you most definitely don't want to miss.
The book is rich in Scottish folklore, superstitions, magick and fae, oh not forgetting horrifically gory parts too. I loved the different languages used in this book especially reading them. I devoured and digested every single word.
This book is a different genre that I have become accustomed to reading by these author's they totally smashed it!!!!
Oh, I must tell you that there are extremely horrific and shocking moments which are not for the weak stomached, O.M.G I even had to close my eyes ... woah did I just read that, squirming now .... loved it!!!! Steamy moments included .... say no more!!!
So excited to hear that the book is part of a trilogy. The next book can't come soon enough by my Ladies of Horror!!! Brilliant debut book by these author's extremely impressive, hurry up please need to feed on more Develan House in the near future!!!!!
The book is rich in Scottish folklore, superstitions, magick and fae, oh not forgetting horrifically gory parts too. I loved the different languages used in this book especially reading them. I devoured and digested every single word.
This book is a different genre that I have become accustomed to reading by these author's they totally smashed it!!!!
Oh, I must tell you that there are extremely horrific and shocking moments which are not for the weak stomached, O.M.G I even had to close my eyes ... woah did I just read that, squirming now .... loved it!!!! Steamy moments included .... say no more!!!
So excited to hear that the book is part of a trilogy. The next book can't come soon enough by my Ladies of Horror!!! Brilliant debut book by these author's extremely impressive, hurry up please need to feed on more Develan House in the near future!!!!!
January 25, 2023
*I'm not going to give you the 'what this book is about' blurb - you can read that elsewhere.
1. Full disclosure: I received an advance copy of this book for an honest review. It's me, so ARC or not, that's what you're going to get...
2. If you've been around long enough you'll know I sing the praises of both of these authors. Separately, they're powerhouses of prose, but together? Oh. My. Goodness...I'm almost speechless, but I gotta review, so I can't actually be speechless.
3. Let's start with the setting; the main portion of this book takes place on a small Scottish island. The imagery painted around the island - both in the historical and present-day portions of this book - is stellar. It's almost like you're there. You can feel the dampness in the atmosphere, smell the peat and the ore in the earth, mixed with the salt of the sea, it's magical how simple words are able to transport you.
4. Speaking of magic, this book is all about old Magick; from the days of knights and kings and burning witches at the stake. Older even - Fae magic. This leads us to a cast of very powerful women. While the men may govern, the women hold the true power, and there were many times while reading I felt proud of my womanhood. Women are something amazing, not to be trifled with.
5. The book does span multiple timelines. If at first you're a bit confused; I'll admit the switch can seem a bit abrupt - keep on reading, and it all pulls together. I personally liked that it jumped around a bit, keeping it fresh, and also adding a bit of mystery like who/what is this now and how is it going to fit into the box of what I already know?
6. I'm so thankful there are additional books planned in the world Natasha and Ruthann have created. I'm far from done with Lady Delevan and Badb. This magic world has sucked me in, and I'm not willing to leave.
1. Full disclosure: I received an advance copy of this book for an honest review. It's me, so ARC or not, that's what you're going to get...
2. If you've been around long enough you'll know I sing the praises of both of these authors. Separately, they're powerhouses of prose, but together? Oh. My. Goodness...I'm almost speechless, but I gotta review, so I can't actually be speechless.
3. Let's start with the setting; the main portion of this book takes place on a small Scottish island. The imagery painted around the island - both in the historical and present-day portions of this book - is stellar. It's almost like you're there. You can feel the dampness in the atmosphere, smell the peat and the ore in the earth, mixed with the salt of the sea, it's magical how simple words are able to transport you.
4. Speaking of magic, this book is all about old Magick; from the days of knights and kings and burning witches at the stake. Older even - Fae magic. This leads us to a cast of very powerful women. While the men may govern, the women hold the true power, and there were many times while reading I felt proud of my womanhood. Women are something amazing, not to be trifled with.
5. The book does span multiple timelines. If at first you're a bit confused; I'll admit the switch can seem a bit abrupt - keep on reading, and it all pulls together. I personally liked that it jumped around a bit, keeping it fresh, and also adding a bit of mystery like who/what is this now and how is it going to fit into the box of what I already know?
6. I'm so thankful there are additional books planned in the world Natasha and Ruthann have created. I'm far from done with Lady Delevan and Badb. This magic world has sucked me in, and I'm not willing to leave.
January 28, 2023
Jagge and Sinclair have changed the game with Delevan House. A tale that celebrates the power of women deserves authors of this magnitude. Bound to be a favorite for many in the year of 2023. I expect many to try and copy what they do here. But a team of authors couldn't surpass what they have accomplished: an addictive storyline that is loaded with mood, atmosphere, and genuine chills. If i could go higher than five stars, I would.
March 9, 2023
Delevan House was a compulsive read I could not put down. Literally. I had to finish it in one sitting. Jagge and Sinclair weave a story that demands this of you. Kudos to both for creating a unique voice that is perfect for the story. Speaking of story…
The structure is unique, and will stretch your imagination as far as it will go, ala Neil Gaiman, or Clive Barker’s more fantastical tales. It’s not just a house—and that’s all I’ll say, because spoilers are the pits, right? Which is part-parcel of the imagination these two amazing writers pulled off. The characters? Loved them. Three-dimensional, and full of realistic emotions. I don’t know much about Scottish folklore, but that—unlike most books that tackle folklore, myth, etc..—didn’t stand in the way of me understanding the story, and story being enriched due to it. It also breathed new life into the story. Still speaking of story…
The Prologue and “first chapter”, Rumors, reminded me of the opening of King’s novel ‘Salem’s Lot, where we are treated to a powerful and commanding exploration of what is to come. And what’s to come is so uniquely structured, I found myself re-reading parts over and over. Each section builds upon the last, continuing in directions you won’t see coming. Horror is not often subtle, but Jagge and Sinclair have crafted a horror novel which shines like a diamond amidst a midnight sea of mediocrity. It’s the highest compliment I can give. Jagge and Sinclair have cemented their positions as power-players in horror… and we are all richer for the experience.
The structure is unique, and will stretch your imagination as far as it will go, ala Neil Gaiman, or Clive Barker’s more fantastical tales. It’s not just a house—and that’s all I’ll say, because spoilers are the pits, right? Which is part-parcel of the imagination these two amazing writers pulled off. The characters? Loved them. Three-dimensional, and full of realistic emotions. I don’t know much about Scottish folklore, but that—unlike most books that tackle folklore, myth, etc..—didn’t stand in the way of me understanding the story, and story being enriched due to it. It also breathed new life into the story. Still speaking of story…
The Prologue and “first chapter”, Rumors, reminded me of the opening of King’s novel ‘Salem’s Lot, where we are treated to a powerful and commanding exploration of what is to come. And what’s to come is so uniquely structured, I found myself re-reading parts over and over. Each section builds upon the last, continuing in directions you won’t see coming. Horror is not often subtle, but Jagge and Sinclair have crafted a horror novel which shines like a diamond amidst a midnight sea of mediocrity. It’s the highest compliment I can give. Jagge and Sinclair have cemented their positions as power-players in horror… and we are all richer for the experience.
February 19, 2023
This was one of my most anticipated book releases of the new year, and definitely the one I was most looking forward to. It seems everyone is talking about this book, and about the authors, Ruthann Jagge and Natasha Sinclair. I can happily report to you that this book deserves all the attention it's getting. It is beautifully written, the prose having a verse-like quality that elevates it from mere horror fiction to a true gothic literary work reminiscent of Stoker's original Dracula texts. Each chapter is a vignette of sorts, a glimpse of a seemingly sleepy seaside town that in reality is anything but asleep, and the magnificent house that looms in its midst, ensnared by the townsfolk but also imposing its will upon them. Woven throughout the book is a rich tapestry of Scottish folklore and mythical figures, many of which I've never heard of before. It was a delight to learn some new ancient legends as I read through each chapter. The book also has enough violence to satisfy any fan of extreme horror, as well as plenty of steamy and scandalous scenes to enjoy. In fact, my favorite part of the book was the "love triangle." I'm also very happy to see there is a sequel in the works as well!
February 8, 2023
Dripping with atmosphere, Jagge and Sinclair have blended their voices into one beautiful, dark symphony.
Delevan House enraptured me, mind, body, and soul, taking me deep into a land only these two could've conjured.
If you're looking for your next horror fix, I suggest booking a room in Delevan House. Although, keep an eye skyward for the birds.
Delevan House enraptured me, mind, body, and soul, taking me deep into a land only these two could've conjured.
If you're looking for your next horror fix, I suggest booking a room in Delevan House. Although, keep an eye skyward for the birds.
March 2, 2023
Absolutely brilliant gothic horror. Fans of James Herbert will love this one. Natasha and Ruthann have done an amazing job of blending their voices.
March 17, 2023
3.5 Stars.
There's a lot to love about this book, but I wasn't a fan of the way the story was told. The story is not told in a linear way, which works for an "unfolding story" in the first quarter of the book, but I found things got very confusing going into the second half. Unfortunately, even though I enjoyed a lot about it, the climax of the story was super confusing for me because of all the characters and timelines coming together.
Saying that, I really enjoyed the feel of this book. It's a kind of folk/fantasy/ old gods sort of horror, and I really liked the female focus. The horror elements are very solid in this - some very disturbing and grim stuff!
I liked the way that Jenna and Pivona's stories were both woven into the tale of Delevan House, I wish it was told in order though, as I really struggled to understand timelines.
Overall, a very interesting book that feels different from a lot of other horror.
There's a lot to love about this book, but I wasn't a fan of the way the story was told. The story is not told in a linear way, which works for an "unfolding story" in the first quarter of the book, but I found things got very confusing going into the second half. Unfortunately, even though I enjoyed a lot about it, the climax of the story was super confusing for me because of all the characters and timelines coming together.
Saying that, I really enjoyed the feel of this book. It's a kind of folk/fantasy/ old gods sort of horror, and I really liked the female focus. The horror elements are very solid in this - some very disturbing and grim stuff!
I liked the way that Jenna and Pivona's stories were both woven into the tale of Delevan House, I wish it was told in order though, as I really struggled to understand timelines.
Overall, a very interesting book that feels different from a lot of other horror.
March 5, 2024
A very choppy-feeling journey in which it almost feels as if you can tell there are two authors who are just slightly out of harmony.
May 1, 2023
I love this book. I'm a big fan of folk horror and witches. I also love stories set in Scotland & Ireland for some reason. Delevan House clicks all those boxes. The writing from these ladies is phenomenal, they set the scene, the dread, the palpable fear so well with their words. The Sinclair/Jagge duo is a force for sure. I loved the characters, particularly the darker ones, and the story and I am so excited that the next in the series is due out later this year. It feels like this story is just getting started.
April 28, 2023
This was such a uniquely written dark folklore, horror story! I love all the spooky elements and how they were incorporated into the plot. Delevan House is a quick paced book with lots of Easter eggs along the way, so buckle up and enjoy your ride. There will be a sequel, and I am waiting on pins and needles for it!!
April 1, 2023
Thank You
Natasha Sinclair and Ruth Anne Jagge
This novel is beautifully written with engaging characters. The first part develops the main character protagonist of the story and How she ended up in the small town in Scotland. The first part has major vibes of Lauren Weisberger's Devil wears Prada and Alexa Jugga Sex in the City styles of writings blended together.
The second half of this novel is hard to put down. It's Creepy Action Packed Ending Brings this Whole Book Together. It will Blow Your Mind. The Second half has the Feels of Tom Tryon Harvest Home, David Pinner Ritual, Shirley Jackson The Lottery and James Leo Herlihy The witch2015 Collaborated together to write a story about Samhain Festival that takes place in Scotland.
This novel is Eerie, Unsettling, and off the Hidges. A Must Read for Those that Enjoy the movie Midsommar directer by Ari Aster
There are Easter Eggs throughout the novel showing how the protagonist is being deceived and manipulated.
Eerie ,Unsettling, Sinister, Bizarre
It strongly emphasizes how Power,
Tradition, and Rituals effect a Region
Psychological Horror
Occult
Scottish Folklore
Graphic Novel
Language, Gore, and Violence
Triggers yes
United States/ Scotland
Natasha Sinclair and Ruth Anne Jagge
This novel is beautifully written with engaging characters. The first part develops the main character protagonist of the story and How she ended up in the small town in Scotland. The first part has major vibes of Lauren Weisberger's Devil wears Prada and Alexa Jugga Sex in the City styles of writings blended together.
The second half of this novel is hard to put down. It's Creepy Action Packed Ending Brings this Whole Book Together. It will Blow Your Mind. The Second half has the Feels of Tom Tryon Harvest Home, David Pinner Ritual, Shirley Jackson The Lottery and James Leo Herlihy The witch2015 Collaborated together to write a story about Samhain Festival that takes place in Scotland.
This novel is Eerie, Unsettling, and off the Hidges. A Must Read for Those that Enjoy the movie Midsommar directer by Ari Aster
There are Easter Eggs throughout the novel showing how the protagonist is being deceived and manipulated.
Eerie ,Unsettling, Sinister, Bizarre
It strongly emphasizes how Power,
Tradition, and Rituals effect a Region
Psychological Horror
Occult
Scottish Folklore
Graphic Novel
Language, Gore, and Violence
Triggers yes
United States/ Scotland
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2023
I've had the pleasure of reading much of Ruthann Jagge's work. Her many short stories in various anthologies and debut novella have not disappointed me. Ruthann is a truly gifted writer and this collaboration with Natasha Sinclair is one of the best stories I've had the pleasure to read in a long time. You can tell the two authors worked hard to create a truly immersive piece steeped in Scottish folklore. This would have been difficult to do given that they live on seperate continents of the globe. I am so in awe of what they managed to create and can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy. It is so well written, dripping with beautiful prose which tantalises the senses. Rich, magical, dark and horrific, this story transported me in a way many stories are unable to do unless they are truly special. Delevan House is so special and unique. I haven't read anything quite like it and I'm thrilled there is more to come. Outstanding!
May 7, 2023
Delevan House is dark and heady with a supernatural twist on Scottish folklore. The team that makes up Brazen Folkhorror (Natasha Sinclair and Ruthann Jagge) have hit it out of the park with the first book in this series. The writing is light and airy at times and then unapologetically digs into the gritty scenes with wild abandon. If you are on the fence, I implore you to indulge in Delevan House and triple dog dare you to read it at night...when you are alone...by the light of a single candle.
May 20, 2023
Oh my lord! The prose in this book is lovely (and of course terrifying!). I have read Jagge before, but Sinclair is new to me, and what a wonderful addition! The Scottish folklore and atmosphere of Delevan House will appeal to all readers who love a good bit of gothic-ness and was (for me), the best part of the novel. I won't give any spoilers, but if you have read Ruthann before, you should definitely pick this up as I believe this is her best yet.
May 19, 2023
This one was interesting to start but sadly I just wasn't a fan of the writing. It felt like the story was not done cohesively and it was kind of choppy for me. It was interesting how all the stories came together but sadly it just wasn't done in a way that made it smooth. I was confused a lot of the time and I do not think I would recommend this one.
April 20, 2023
My anticipation for the release of Delevan House has been palpable. It includes all my favorite ingredients for a good story: Celtic folklore, Fae, witchery, magic, gothic atmosphere, badass women who deserve to be feared, and unapologetic destruction. It hit every note with precision!
Let me first applaud Jagge and Sinclair for seamlessly weaving two individual writing styles into a sublime world of horrific magical realism. I also want to recognize the fact that they managed this task with Jagge living in Texas, USA, and Sinclair living in Glasgow, Scotland – I mean seriously, mad props!
Now, let’s discuss the details that made me love this book. First, Develan House is not a location. She is a living structure with so many untold stories that I am looking forward to learning more about throughout this trilogy. The character depth and complexity they’ve created leave you with both an understanding and a thirst for more. I am not a linear thinker, so the multiple timelines and changing points of view kept me captivated; enthralled for what was coming next. As a writer myself, I am always trying to stay one step ahead of the storyline, so when I find a plot I cannot outwit, I immediately add those authors to my must-read list. Lastly, let’s talk about the gothic ambiance they’ve created. While you are enveloped in this world, you can truly escape reality and begin to believe in magic. This book lets you explore the parts of yourself you keep hidden or didn’t even realize existed. Do yourself a favor, buy this book now, and put both Ruthann Jagge and Natasha Sinclair on your list of auto-purchase!
Let me first applaud Jagge and Sinclair for seamlessly weaving two individual writing styles into a sublime world of horrific magical realism. I also want to recognize the fact that they managed this task with Jagge living in Texas, USA, and Sinclair living in Glasgow, Scotland – I mean seriously, mad props!
Now, let’s discuss the details that made me love this book. First, Develan House is not a location. She is a living structure with so many untold stories that I am looking forward to learning more about throughout this trilogy. The character depth and complexity they’ve created leave you with both an understanding and a thirst for more. I am not a linear thinker, so the multiple timelines and changing points of view kept me captivated; enthralled for what was coming next. As a writer myself, I am always trying to stay one step ahead of the storyline, so when I find a plot I cannot outwit, I immediately add those authors to my must-read list. Lastly, let’s talk about the gothic ambiance they’ve created. While you are enveloped in this world, you can truly escape reality and begin to believe in magic. This book lets you explore the parts of yourself you keep hidden or didn’t even realize existed. Do yourself a favor, buy this book now, and put both Ruthann Jagge and Natasha Sinclair on your list of auto-purchase!
March 29, 2023
Review soon to come
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