What do you think?
Rate this book
Witch: A terrifying supernatural gothic horror with a devastating twist
A new home. A new start. Burying the tragedy of the past.
Gabe and Tor Hooper relocate to rural West Wales to restart their lives following the tragedy of the past, buying a magnificent house on a lake.
But they awaken the witch – a vengeful ghost who haunts both their new home and their dreams, having sworn revenge on, anyone who is the ‘master’ of Lake House.
As the woman in white escalates her terrifying campaign, Gabe fights to save his family from the horrors she brings, her disciples around her and the temptation to change the past. Can anyone resist such a supernatural force and will Gabe choose between his heart or his head?
WITCH, the terrifying new horror novel from Mark Brownless, the author of The Shadow Man and The Hand of an Angel.
Gabe and Tor Hooper relocate to rural West Wales to restart their lives following the tragedy of the past, buying a magnificent house on a lake.
But they awaken the witch – a vengeful ghost who haunts both their new home and their dreams, having sworn revenge on, anyone who is the ‘master’ of Lake House.
As the woman in white escalates her terrifying campaign, Gabe fights to save his family from the horrors she brings, her disciples around her and the temptation to change the past. Can anyone resist such a supernatural force and will Gabe choose between his heart or his head?
WITCH, the terrifying new horror novel from Mark Brownless, the author of The Shadow Man and The Hand of an Angel.
354 pages, Hardcover
Published October 27, 2021
39 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
About the author
Mark Brownless
10 books12 followersMark Brownless lives and works in Carmarthen, West Wales. He has been putting ideas on paper for some years now but only when the idea for The Hand of an Angel came to him in the autumn of 2015 did he know he might be able to write a book. Mark likes to write about ordinary people being placed in extraordinary circumstances, is fascinated by unexplained phenomena, and enjoys merging thriller, science fiction and horror.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 11, 2022
Clearly I read something different to everyone else
I’m not sure what anyone else was reading to give this book good reviews, but what I read hardly merits such good praise that I saw written about this book. When I saw the reviews, I was proper excited for this book. I love a good horror/thriller story; one that has me on edge and unable to read in the dark. But this book just completely bored the hell out of me. The writing was painful to read through. It was long winded and just rattled on about stuff that wasn’t important half the time. I kept hoping the book would get better and I would be sucked in, but nope; nothing. And by the time I realised it wasn’t going to get any better, I was close to the end anyway and decided to just suffer through it and finish the book. Not that I ever DNF a book; no matter how bad it is. Feel like I have wasted two days of my life with this one. Really disappointed.
I’m not sure what anyone else was reading to give this book good reviews, but what I read hardly merits such good praise that I saw written about this book. When I saw the reviews, I was proper excited for this book. I love a good horror/thriller story; one that has me on edge and unable to read in the dark. But this book just completely bored the hell out of me. The writing was painful to read through. It was long winded and just rattled on about stuff that wasn’t important half the time. I kept hoping the book would get better and I would be sucked in, but nope; nothing. And by the time I realised it wasn’t going to get any better, I was close to the end anyway and decided to just suffer through it and finish the book. Not that I ever DNF a book; no matter how bad it is. Feel like I have wasted two days of my life with this one. Really disappointed.
October 17, 2021
Ohhhh this book is perfect for a chilling fix at Halloween! Even just the cover is enough to send shivers down your spine before you even delve into it !
A beautiful property in Wales on the waterfront , in a peaceful village , is back on the market..... but who is daft enough to live there? The thing that is missing off the house listing for the new couple who by the house is that it comes with its very own ghost of a witch , she will not go unnoticed!
This is a brilliant horror story that will have you gripped on to every page , keep you hooked to find out what is going to happen. The book is fast paced , it is thrilling , exciting , has great depth along with great characters. The author describes the setting and characters so that it does play out in your mind as a horror film... absolutely brilliant!! A must read for horror fans
A beautiful property in Wales on the waterfront , in a peaceful village , is back on the market..... but who is daft enough to live there? The thing that is missing off the house listing for the new couple who by the house is that it comes with its very own ghost of a witch , she will not go unnoticed!
This is a brilliant horror story that will have you gripped on to every page , keep you hooked to find out what is going to happen. The book is fast paced , it is thrilling , exciting , has great depth along with great characters. The author describes the setting and characters so that it does play out in your mind as a horror film... absolutely brilliant!! A must read for horror fans
October 15, 2021
An isolated 400 year old waterfront property in a rural Welsh village... what could possibly go wrong??!! I am so glad I read this book with all the lights on and during the daytime!! Even now I am still wincing at weird noises around the house..... just in case the witch has decided to come and haunt me!
Victoria and Gabe are both writers, and they find themselves moving to this new property to try and help them move on from a tragedy. But you can really tell that this grief goes deep and it's very hard to move on. The locals aren't too welcoming and soon talk turns to the witch that haunts the property!! That would see me running for the hills! But Victoria and Gabe aren't put off by these tales..... and then the weirdness starts up at home!!
There's noises, strange sightings, messages left on the wall....they begin by trying to be rational about it all but it soon turns much darker and Gabe is left to find out more about the past of this home in the hope he can put an end to it all, whilst Victoria seems to become more fascinated by this ghostly presence.
It was wonderfully descriptive throughout, that really helps put you at the centre of the action and leaves you with chills as the darkness that surrounds them takes hold! I also loved the flashbacks to the past to tell the story of Morvith and could have happily read more tales of her and the goings on of the past!
It's a book to frighten, to shock and to entertain and I loved every single minute of being scared and chilled to the core!!
Victoria and Gabe are both writers, and they find themselves moving to this new property to try and help them move on from a tragedy. But you can really tell that this grief goes deep and it's very hard to move on. The locals aren't too welcoming and soon talk turns to the witch that haunts the property!! That would see me running for the hills! But Victoria and Gabe aren't put off by these tales..... and then the weirdness starts up at home!!
There's noises, strange sightings, messages left on the wall....they begin by trying to be rational about it all but it soon turns much darker and Gabe is left to find out more about the past of this home in the hope he can put an end to it all, whilst Victoria seems to become more fascinated by this ghostly presence.
It was wonderfully descriptive throughout, that really helps put you at the centre of the action and leaves you with chills as the darkness that surrounds them takes hold! I also loved the flashbacks to the past to tell the story of Morvith and could have happily read more tales of her and the goings on of the past!
It's a book to frighten, to shock and to entertain and I loved every single minute of being scared and chilled to the core!!
October 14, 2021
*I received a free copy of this book with thanks to the author and to Zoé of Zooloo’s Book Tours and SpellBound Books. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Gabe and Tor have fled to the Welsh countryside to escape their grief and try to make a fresh start together, but grief isn’t that easy to just slough off and their new house, Ty Llun, already has an owner… one that doesn’t believe in fresh starts, or second chances, or forgiveness…
Witch is a haunted house horror story with a strong slant towards the shockingly gory. The titular witch, haunting the Hoopers in their new house, revels in graphic, shocking torture (especially unwilling self-harm, both real and imagined) and so expect plenty of snapping bones, exposed innards and other such visceral delights.
The writing veers between the almost poetic descriptions of place and mood, to those starkly horrific details, then back again, really highlighting the disparity between the Hoopers’ normal, everyday lives and the beautiful setting they are living in, and the paranormal intrusions that turn their idyll into a nightmare.
I was a little confused by the end of the story, as there were a number of interesting threads that were started – Idris’ wife; Morvith’s original ending; the constant water drinking; the cage in the woods – that I didn’t feel the author had time to fully explore, but then the very ending does leave the possibility of a sequel open, so maybe the remaining questions will be answered there (or maybe it’s all part of the mystery, that we can never know all the ins and outs of what happened!).
Fans of books featuring darkly-detailed gore, paranormal black magic, mind manipulation and stories with a strong sense of setting and character, will enjoy this visit to Ty Llun… as long as they stay out of the woods!
''Not a believer then, Mr Hooper.’ It wasn’t a question. ‘In’trestin’, you being a writer of fantasy stuff and all. Fine by me. You enjoy your house on the lake.’ The old man looked away and rocked gently back and forth in his chair.
‘What does that mean?’
‘It means whether you believe in her or not, she’ll still come after you. She won’t leave you alone just because you’re a sceptic.’'
– Mark Brownless, Witch
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Gabe and Tor have fled to the Welsh countryside to escape their grief and try to make a fresh start together, but grief isn’t that easy to just slough off and their new house, Ty Llun, already has an owner… one that doesn’t believe in fresh starts, or second chances, or forgiveness…
Witch is a haunted house horror story with a strong slant towards the shockingly gory. The titular witch, haunting the Hoopers in their new house, revels in graphic, shocking torture (especially unwilling self-harm, both real and imagined) and so expect plenty of snapping bones, exposed innards and other such visceral delights.
The writing veers between the almost poetic descriptions of place and mood, to those starkly horrific details, then back again, really highlighting the disparity between the Hoopers’ normal, everyday lives and the beautiful setting they are living in, and the paranormal intrusions that turn their idyll into a nightmare.
I was a little confused by the end of the story, as there were a number of interesting threads that were started – Idris’ wife; Morvith’s original ending; the constant water drinking; the cage in the woods – that I didn’t feel the author had time to fully explore, but then the very ending does leave the possibility of a sequel open, so maybe the remaining questions will be answered there (or maybe it’s all part of the mystery, that we can never know all the ins and outs of what happened!).
Fans of books featuring darkly-detailed gore, paranormal black magic, mind manipulation and stories with a strong sense of setting and character, will enjoy this visit to Ty Llun… as long as they stay out of the woods!
''Not a believer then, Mr Hooper.’ It wasn’t a question. ‘In’trestin’, you being a writer of fantasy stuff and all. Fine by me. You enjoy your house on the lake.’ The old man looked away and rocked gently back and forth in his chair.
‘What does that mean?’
‘It means whether you believe in her or not, she’ll still come after you. She won’t leave you alone just because you’re a sceptic.’'
– Mark Brownless, Witch
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
October 15, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book left me terrified! Every little noise I heard had me on edge 🙈🤣
Such a brilliant story, very bittersweet. I also enjoyed reading about Morvith, her story.
And the twists will blow you away! The writting was brilliant, set the scene brilliantly, had a perfect vision of the house in my head. Brilliant book, certainly worth a read!
This book left me terrified! Every little noise I heard had me on edge 🙈🤣
Such a brilliant story, very bittersweet. I also enjoyed reading about Morvith, her story.
And the twists will blow you away! The writting was brilliant, set the scene brilliantly, had a perfect vision of the house in my head. Brilliant book, certainly worth a read!
January 15, 2022
Different, certainly!
Centuries ago a young woman, with an esoteric gift for healing, is abused and murdered by the local squire after failing to cure his terminally ill son. After death she morphs into a dark witch entity that terrorises future owners of the squire's hall. Worshipped by the local community and studied by a secret government agency, the ghost witch seeks ultimate reincarnation. On to this scene step a young couple with a tragic past and, a soon to be, even worse future. An evocative tale well worth a read.
Centuries ago a young woman, with an esoteric gift for healing, is abused and murdered by the local squire after failing to cure his terminally ill son. After death she morphs into a dark witch entity that terrorises future owners of the squire's hall. Worshipped by the local community and studied by a secret government agency, the ghost witch seeks ultimate reincarnation. On to this scene step a young couple with a tragic past and, a soon to be, even worse future. An evocative tale well worth a read.
August 7, 2025
After reading the blurb, I thought this book had potential to be a really good thriller/ horror.
however I felt the whole story was rushed and I wanted more. I think more time could have been spent on really developing the characters especially when it comes to Mikey. There could have been more of a build up to the initial witch sighting via more suspense and a gradual build up of supernatural activity as opposed to what felt like supernatural experience then the next time she was a full apparition and interacting with the main characters.
I gave this book 2 stars because it started off well and was enjoyable but there were things that happened that I thought could have been missed out/ different. The storyline became predictable, with a very unsatisfying ending that didn't really explain why leaving me with more questions which I suppose could have been intentional.
however I felt the whole story was rushed and I wanted more. I think more time could have been spent on really developing the characters especially when it comes to Mikey. There could have been more of a build up to the initial witch sighting via more suspense and a gradual build up of supernatural activity as opposed to what felt like supernatural experience then the next time she was a full apparition and interacting with the main characters.
I gave this book 2 stars because it started off well and was enjoyable but there were things that happened that I thought could have been missed out/ different. The storyline became predictable, with a very unsatisfying ending that didn't really explain why leaving me with more questions which I suppose could have been intentional.
December 8, 2021
Excellent horror novel
I absolutely loved this book. It had me hooked from the start and really surprised me with its twists and turns. Mr Brownless is an extremely descriptive and accomplished writer, and Witch is great work. Really looking forward to more from this writer.
I absolutely loved this book. It had me hooked from the start and really surprised me with its twists and turns. Mr Brownless is an extremely descriptive and accomplished writer, and Witch is great work. Really looking forward to more from this writer.
May 21, 2022
Just awful. First, for all those in the know, the main female character doesn’t exercise or look at her diet (this is an actual reference from the book) but still manages to stay slim with curves in all the right places and long brown hair that tumbles in waves over her shoulders but doesn’t obscure her pretty never wears makeup face.
I’m glad I borrowed it from kindle unlimited.
The storyline has been done before but that isn’t the problem here. The writing style is infuriating. There must be a school of creative writing that teaches their pupils to be over detailed on the most mundane points and to pepper their work with references to the modern day that has the end effect of a middle aged parent trying to make their teenager think they’re cool. At one point, I thought it had slipped into a cookbook when the main male character was making dinner.
I understand that the characters are dealing with an immense loss but the cringy banter between the two of them was less hiding from intimacy and more tin can applause American comedy show.
When the wife kept going into the November Welsh woods barefoot to meet a dead 400 year old witch and no one seemed to think that was an issue, well I just said goodbye to any hope the book would improve.
I’m glad I borrowed it from kindle unlimited.
The storyline has been done before but that isn’t the problem here. The writing style is infuriating. There must be a school of creative writing that teaches their pupils to be over detailed on the most mundane points and to pepper their work with references to the modern day that has the end effect of a middle aged parent trying to make their teenager think they’re cool. At one point, I thought it had slipped into a cookbook when the main male character was making dinner.
I understand that the characters are dealing with an immense loss but the cringy banter between the two of them was less hiding from intimacy and more tin can applause American comedy show.
When the wife kept going into the November Welsh woods barefoot to meet a dead 400 year old witch and no one seemed to think that was an issue, well I just said goodbye to any hope the book would improve.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2021
Can I just start by saying, what an amazing cover! That cover made me want to read this story full stop. That cover is just pure genius.
So, the story what do we have? Well there's a couple going through some heartbreak and decide to up sticks and move to a quiet, sleepy, quaint village in Wales. May I just note here that I'm a Welsh woman 😁 However, you will notice Cwm Cysgod isn't a place I'd be promoting for the Welsh tourist board.
Interspersed within the narrative of the main story is that of Morvith's story. And this is one that I really enjoyed. A look back into the past, a little insight into a time where witchcraft was feared. Morvith is a fantastic character, I would love to have more of her and her life.
The Witch has all the classic elements of a horror, slasher story. At times you are left holding your breath as to what will happen next. I completely enjoyed it.
But remember not all Welsh villages are like this 🤣
So, the story what do we have? Well there's a couple going through some heartbreak and decide to up sticks and move to a quiet, sleepy, quaint village in Wales. May I just note here that I'm a Welsh woman 😁 However, you will notice Cwm Cysgod isn't a place I'd be promoting for the Welsh tourist board.
Interspersed within the narrative of the main story is that of Morvith's story. And this is one that I really enjoyed. A look back into the past, a little insight into a time where witchcraft was feared. Morvith is a fantastic character, I would love to have more of her and her life.
The Witch has all the classic elements of a horror, slasher story. At times you are left holding your breath as to what will happen next. I completely enjoyed it.
But remember not all Welsh villages are like this 🤣
January 2, 2023
How many times was porn mentioned 😂
Right up until the end I was unsure what the rate this book, as some parts really came together and I thought it was going to be a eerie solid book.
Nope.
First of all, why is gabe not telling his wife of all the weird encounters. Hello? Nearly being sucked into a painting...yeh,I would tell my partner. Then he was just having the ride of his life throughout the book, never opening his eyes. KEEP THEM SHUT, ITS NOT CHEATING.
Really disappointed and thought it was going to be more than it turned out to be. Some parts are gruesome and everything right with a horror but it's overwhelmed and overlooked by everything wrong with a horror,actually just wrong in a story.
Right up until the end I was unsure what the rate this book, as some parts really came together and I thought it was going to be a eerie solid book.
Nope.
First of all, why is gabe not telling his wife of all the weird encounters. Hello? Nearly being sucked into a painting...yeh,I would tell my partner. Then he was just having the ride of his life throughout the book, never opening his eyes. KEEP THEM SHUT, ITS NOT CHEATING.
Really disappointed and thought it was going to be more than it turned out to be. Some parts are gruesome and everything right with a horror but it's overwhelmed and overlooked by everything wrong with a horror,actually just wrong in a story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2021
Two words to sum up this book - well creepy! It took me back to my late teens when I used to read a lot of James Herbert. ‘Witch’ definitely had this vibe going on.
I love the fact that there was a historic story to tell. The things that were going on in the house and around the estate were simply terrifying. What had me gripped was the sadness of it all too. The story between Gabe and Tor as they moved for a new start really tugged at my heartstrings. This sadness made the perfect backdrop for what was to come.
If you love your horror and you love the haunted house genre, this is that and more. I’d say ‘Witch’ is a bang on Halloween choice. Get it now, scare yourself silly!
I love the fact that there was a historic story to tell. The things that were going on in the house and around the estate were simply terrifying. What had me gripped was the sadness of it all too. The story between Gabe and Tor as they moved for a new start really tugged at my heartstrings. This sadness made the perfect backdrop for what was to come.
If you love your horror and you love the haunted house genre, this is that and more. I’d say ‘Witch’ is a bang on Halloween choice. Get it now, scare yourself silly!
May 15, 2023
I had such high hopes for this book, but sadly it was a massive disappointment. Poor and boring characterisation, little to no real emotional impact and a completely irrelevant ‘x-files’ subplot that goes nowhere. The writing is also really stilted, especially when it comes to dialogue - mixed in with huge blocks of dense text that are mostly skippable. It was entertaining enough, but glad I only paid 99p for it
January 11, 2024
The story had a lot of potential but for me it fell short of what it could be and despite the blurb telling me it was a spine chilling tale, I was not scared or even made feel uncomfortable whilst reading it. I am actually very disappointed, I was in the mood for a scary story but sadly this was not it.
February 12, 2023
One piece of personification, used well, is so much better than 4 separate pieces of personification, in consecutive sentences.
Also i know how to make a cup of tea! How many step by step tutorials do you need?! (Serious question here)
Dnf at 43%. It just got far too painful.
Also i know how to make a cup of tea! How many step by step tutorials do you need?! (Serious question here)
Dnf at 43%. It just got far too painful.
February 25, 2023
Standard supernatural horror
I had high hopes for this one having read some reviews about how frightening it was. For me, it didn't live up to those other reviews.
I had high hopes for this one having read some reviews about how frightening it was. For me, it didn't live up to those other reviews.
October 23, 2021
[Blog]::[Youtube]::[Twitter]::[Instagram]::[Pinterest]::[Bloglovin]
“Witch” is a creepy, atmospheric horror novel that will not disappoint fans of the genre.
When I started reading this book, I had NO idea how awesome it would be. The author sets the mood perfectly right from the first page as Gabe and Tor move to the Lake House and run into Idris and Carol. The author keeps the suspense consistent where something happened to Tor and Gabe in every chapter. Hitting something on the road, hearing shrieking from a painting, and witnessing the pipe incident are only a few of the many moments that unnerve them.
I loved both the main characters. The author portrays Gabe and Tor beautifully as they settle in the house. The presence of the spirit gave me the creeps, and I wondered how she would strike next. Moreover, the author adds layers to the characters, seeing the history of their loss and trying to move forward. The author also spends time detailing the other residents of Ty Llyn, like Idris, Mal, and Ellie. Frankly, I found Tor fascinating because she was vulnerable to the presence more than Gabe, and you didn’t know how it would affect her.
One of the highlights was when the author flashback to the past where we read about Morvith. As you continue reading, the stakes go up, and you realize how dangerous and sinister the Witch becomes. Moreover, you see the plot is not as straightforward as it appears, as you see conspiracies and secrets along the way. There are some shocking twists, especially to the end of the story, which I did not see coming at all! After reading the book, I still have goosebumps recollecting some parts of the tale.
Overall, “Witch” is the perfect horror novel to pick up and read during Halloween!
October 18, 2021
My god man, give me the sequel right now, I mean it seriously… I want it in my hands RIGHT NOW!!!
Now disclaimer, this book didn’t scare me, what it did was it lured me into a false sense of security at times, it made me feel uneasy and I did wonder if I saw someone watching me out the corner of my eye. I will never be wearing or buying a white dress that is for sure.
Gah!!! This book!!! A couple with a heartbreak, move to a village in Wales, one that doesn’t like strangers, one to scare off the newbies with the local legend. Yeah, steering clear thank you!
I took my time with this book, mainly had no choice but I am glad I did. This book needs to be savoured. You need to think about what you have learned. What I loved, apart from a couple of chapters, we learned everything at the same time as Gabe. We are living his life. I had no idea what would happen and where this story would go. Have I mentioned I want the sequel?
I was so sucked into Marks words, I could have been there. Smelling the stench, hearing the woods…or not as the case may be. Not going to lie a couple of scenes unsettled me, always the classic, you see something. Turn your head, turn back and bam they are there. Always gives me a chill. I thought the story was well played out and it was interesting with Morvith’s backstory. Would love to know more about her and the Master. However, it was enough to whet my appetite and sucker punch me through. Man, it was a sucker punch. Despite it being a satisfying sting in the tail….it was a hard sting to swallow. I went in blind with this book and it is hard to discuss a lot of the book without giving anything away. I just learned by the end of the book, never to trust people, move to sleepy villages and if I see my partner running into the woods a lot…well I am jumping in the car and driving the other way.
A book that has a little bit of everything in to get you through the Halloween period. Jumps, chills, and a ruddy good story, just maybe don’t stare at the cover too long… A contender for my book of the year? Hell Yeah…ok poor choice of words there!
So sequel yeah?
Now disclaimer, this book didn’t scare me, what it did was it lured me into a false sense of security at times, it made me feel uneasy and I did wonder if I saw someone watching me out the corner of my eye. I will never be wearing or buying a white dress that is for sure.
Gah!!! This book!!! A couple with a heartbreak, move to a village in Wales, one that doesn’t like strangers, one to scare off the newbies with the local legend. Yeah, steering clear thank you!
I took my time with this book, mainly had no choice but I am glad I did. This book needs to be savoured. You need to think about what you have learned. What I loved, apart from a couple of chapters, we learned everything at the same time as Gabe. We are living his life. I had no idea what would happen and where this story would go. Have I mentioned I want the sequel?
I was so sucked into Marks words, I could have been there. Smelling the stench, hearing the woods…or not as the case may be. Not going to lie a couple of scenes unsettled me, always the classic, you see something. Turn your head, turn back and bam they are there. Always gives me a chill. I thought the story was well played out and it was interesting with Morvith’s backstory. Would love to know more about her and the Master. However, it was enough to whet my appetite and sucker punch me through. Man, it was a sucker punch. Despite it being a satisfying sting in the tail….it was a hard sting to swallow. I went in blind with this book and it is hard to discuss a lot of the book without giving anything away. I just learned by the end of the book, never to trust people, move to sleepy villages and if I see my partner running into the woods a lot…well I am jumping in the car and driving the other way.
A book that has a little bit of everything in to get you through the Halloween period. Jumps, chills, and a ruddy good story, just maybe don’t stare at the cover too long… A contender for my book of the year? Hell Yeah…ok poor choice of words there!
So sequel yeah?
October 29, 2021
After seeing several great reviews for this book by other Book Bloggers I decided to see what the fuss was about. I am so glad I did because this book was brilliant and good on a spooky scale. Not quite the full-on heebie-jeebies, but one that I made sure I kept the light on while I read on my kindle :)
So, old Welsh cottage, by the lake, middle of nowhere sounds great, that is until the new owners get told about the rumour of the witch who doesn't want anyone living in her cottage. For me, there would be one option... yep I'd be gone, and you wouldn't see me for dust. Thank goodness the author's characters are made of tougher stuff.
The new owners Gabe and Tor have come to Ty Llun (Lake House) to leave bad memories behind, start again with just the happier memories. The locals in the pub are an ermm, well interesting bunch. Not really welcoming as this new couple are English and this is a very Welsh area that they have moved to. A small close-knit and tight community.
The couple dismisses the rumour of there being a witch, and rightly so. Most people would, but the author's description of this very secluded house and then the rumour on the top would make me extremely nervous. GRadually the author brings the story of Gabe and Tor out. The past heartache and the reasons for the move. He has them exploring around the lake and talking to a couple of people.
At the same time, he is gradually dropping in fleeting glimpses, odd noises and some great descriptions. Around the halfway point another couple of characters are introduced, this adds some intrigue, mystery and more weird spookiness.
This is a fab story that I read in one sitting, after all, I needed to get to the end before I could go to sleep. The ending has left something that could be continued and I do hope this is something the author has got in mind because I am not quite ready to let go of the characters quite yet.
A great story with a good amount of eerieness and yes I would class it as a horror, but not the massive blood and guts type. A story that I would definitely recommend.
So, old Welsh cottage, by the lake, middle of nowhere sounds great, that is until the new owners get told about the rumour of the witch who doesn't want anyone living in her cottage. For me, there would be one option... yep I'd be gone, and you wouldn't see me for dust. Thank goodness the author's characters are made of tougher stuff.
The new owners Gabe and Tor have come to Ty Llun (Lake House) to leave bad memories behind, start again with just the happier memories. The locals in the pub are an ermm, well interesting bunch. Not really welcoming as this new couple are English and this is a very Welsh area that they have moved to. A small close-knit and tight community.
The couple dismisses the rumour of there being a witch, and rightly so. Most people would, but the author's description of this very secluded house and then the rumour on the top would make me extremely nervous. GRadually the author brings the story of Gabe and Tor out. The past heartache and the reasons for the move. He has them exploring around the lake and talking to a couple of people.
At the same time, he is gradually dropping in fleeting glimpses, odd noises and some great descriptions. Around the halfway point another couple of characters are introduced, this adds some intrigue, mystery and more weird spookiness.
This is a fab story that I read in one sitting, after all, I needed to get to the end before I could go to sleep. The ending has left something that could be continued and I do hope this is something the author has got in mind because I am not quite ready to let go of the characters quite yet.
A great story with a good amount of eerieness and yes I would class it as a horror, but not the massive blood and guts type. A story that I would definitely recommend.
October 16, 2021
Another perfect Halloween book. Spellbound really have pitched SHOctober perfectly.
This is set in an old abandoned house, in a tiny village, by a lake, isolated from the rest of the residents. Tor and Gabe are trying to get a new start after the death of their son.
When they venture into the local pub, they are looked on with suspicion and told the local urban legend about the house they have just moved into.
As the story progresses, lots of strange and mysterious events start happening, putting you on edge constantly. Mark doesnt allow you to relax at any point.
Creepy noises, strange creaks and bangs, blood appearing and messages in the mirror.
Gabe realises that one of the men was probably telling the truth on their first night, and gradually learns some of the story about the witch that is supposedly haunting their home.
The chapters cut back to the original story of the witch. Unfortunately for me, this was never properly concluded. It was hinted at.
However it takes nothing away from the book, and the final few chapters go off in a direction I wouldnt have ever expected, and it really puts a different slant on events.
This is a book I would really love to see made into a film, some of the descriptive writing is so beautiful I could picture myself standing there. It is such an action packed story it would make an incredible movie.
Another thing I particularly enjoyed were little references to films, quotes and tv, they are placed regularly and used perfectly.
This is set in an old abandoned house, in a tiny village, by a lake, isolated from the rest of the residents. Tor and Gabe are trying to get a new start after the death of their son.
When they venture into the local pub, they are looked on with suspicion and told the local urban legend about the house they have just moved into.
As the story progresses, lots of strange and mysterious events start happening, putting you on edge constantly. Mark doesnt allow you to relax at any point.
Creepy noises, strange creaks and bangs, blood appearing and messages in the mirror.
Gabe realises that one of the men was probably telling the truth on their first night, and gradually learns some of the story about the witch that is supposedly haunting their home.
The chapters cut back to the original story of the witch. Unfortunately for me, this was never properly concluded. It was hinted at.
However it takes nothing away from the book, and the final few chapters go off in a direction I wouldnt have ever expected, and it really puts a different slant on events.
This is a book I would really love to see made into a film, some of the descriptive writing is so beautiful I could picture myself standing there. It is such an action packed story it would make an incredible movie.
Another thing I particularly enjoyed were little references to films, quotes and tv, they are placed regularly and used perfectly.
October 19, 2021
Omg if you don’t think the cover is terrifying this book is for you. If you think the cover is terrifying don’t read. Lol! But no on a serious note this reminded me of the Blair witch on and because of that I hope this gets made into a film.
It literally creeped me out so much. I loved this being Welsh and obviously the book being set in Wales so for me it was relatable when I visualised the location. If this book doesn’t play on your heart in more than one way I’ll be shocked. The backstory was emotional and the main characters you feel for. Every part of you hopes that the fresh start they journey on is one for a successful outcome. However this read has a few characters that play on your mind… are they really who they say they are?
Urban legends are ones that seem to stay with me the most and do make me skeptical before they start taking place. So instantly I was so on edge. When everything starts to kick in and events start appearing the intensity creeps up. You start to feel your nerves travel around your heart and panic with the writing. The author does amazing at scaring you to your core.
This is the perfect read for Halloween you definitely won’t be sleeping with the lights off after reading this.
It literally creeped me out so much. I loved this being Welsh and obviously the book being set in Wales so for me it was relatable when I visualised the location. If this book doesn’t play on your heart in more than one way I’ll be shocked. The backstory was emotional and the main characters you feel for. Every part of you hopes that the fresh start they journey on is one for a successful outcome. However this read has a few characters that play on your mind… are they really who they say they are?
Urban legends are ones that seem to stay with me the most and do make me skeptical before they start taking place. So instantly I was so on edge. When everything starts to kick in and events start appearing the intensity creeps up. You start to feel your nerves travel around your heart and panic with the writing. The author does amazing at scaring you to your core.
This is the perfect read for Halloween you definitely won’t be sleeping with the lights off after reading this.
July 3, 2024
Descriptions galore and a rushed storyline is what turned, what could have been, a great horror story into a complete mess.
There is no need for that many similes, personifications and continuous descriptors of the same subject one after the other. There is much less of a need for everything to be compared to popular movies and TV shows at every given moment.
There were places in the book where I had to backtrack as I thought I'd read the same page twice somehow, but were just reused and changed so subtly that it was hard to notice the difference. There were pages where I had no clue what was going on. And pages where I contemplated giving up. The gruesome scenes were too clumped together, seemingly happening at points that don't make sense with very little emotions shown by the characters. There is little, to no, character development with the main couple being comparatively bland throughout.
The whole premise of the book should have been that of an interesting, chilling horror story. It really had potential. Unfortunately lacking in most literary departments coupled with the author's love for porn, an ankle fetish, loose ends and repetition, it felt like a chore reading through to the end.
There is no need for that many similes, personifications and continuous descriptors of the same subject one after the other. There is much less of a need for everything to be compared to popular movies and TV shows at every given moment.
There were places in the book where I had to backtrack as I thought I'd read the same page twice somehow, but were just reused and changed so subtly that it was hard to notice the difference. There were pages where I had no clue what was going on. And pages where I contemplated giving up. The gruesome scenes were too clumped together, seemingly happening at points that don't make sense with very little emotions shown by the characters. There is little, to no, character development with the main couple being comparatively bland throughout.
The whole premise of the book should have been that of an interesting, chilling horror story. It really had potential. Unfortunately lacking in most literary departments coupled with the author's love for porn, an ankle fetish, loose ends and repetition, it felt like a chore reading through to the end.
October 14, 2024
2.5 stars.
The cover of WITCH, by Mark Brownless is amazing! The premise sounded good as well, but did veer off into various tangents (some better than others), that changed the idea quite a bit for me.
The beginning threw me off with all the similes; for example, at one point every sentence used the word "like" to further explain something... PAGES of this. I eventually made a game of counting them.
The atmosphere was creepy, and I did enjoy the inserts of Morvich's life in the past, although I wish they had "completed" her tale that way. I won't spoil any of the other sub-plots, except to say that one in particular did NOT work for me. The characters, Gabe and Tor, just never had the right "dynamic" between them, imho. I never really warmed to them, and preferred the witch, to be honest.
Overall, great atmosphere, and backstory to the witch; however, I feel like too many subplots were thrown in that just took away from the "creepy" feel I expected. As always, all readers' views are different, and I encourage you to read it for yourself.
The cover of WITCH, by Mark Brownless is amazing! The premise sounded good as well, but did veer off into various tangents (some better than others), that changed the idea quite a bit for me.
The beginning threw me off with all the similes; for example, at one point every sentence used the word "like" to further explain something... PAGES of this. I eventually made a game of counting them.
The atmosphere was creepy, and I did enjoy the inserts of Morvich's life in the past, although I wish they had "completed" her tale that way. I won't spoil any of the other sub-plots, except to say that one in particular did NOT work for me. The characters, Gabe and Tor, just never had the right "dynamic" between them, imho. I never really warmed to them, and preferred the witch, to be honest.
Overall, great atmosphere, and backstory to the witch; however, I feel like too many subplots were thrown in that just took away from the "creepy" feel I expected. As always, all readers' views are different, and I encourage you to read it for yourself.
July 3, 2025
So you buy a beautiful house on the lake to try and restart your lives after tragedy hits you. While doing so, you awake a 400 year old witch with a vengeful plan for the new owners. Could you fight to save your family from the horror she brings, fight her disciples, fight the temptation to change your past? What would you choose, your heart or your head?
This witchy read definitely gets you thinking about all the things you think you know about creepy lake houses in the middle of nowhere, and this story doesn't disappoint. A slow build that creeps into your every thought gets you asking questions throughout.
Above all, this is a story about grief, loss, and the lengths you take to try and get something so precious back, no matter what form it comes in. What would you truly do to get that back? How far is too far?
A great story, my friends, check it out - also, side note - I think Mark did a great service capturing the Welsh names and celtic heritage. Welshies unite - I think Mark should be counted as one of us now 😁🏴
This witchy read definitely gets you thinking about all the things you think you know about creepy lake houses in the middle of nowhere, and this story doesn't disappoint. A slow build that creeps into your every thought gets you asking questions throughout.
Above all, this is a story about grief, loss, and the lengths you take to try and get something so precious back, no matter what form it comes in. What would you truly do to get that back? How far is too far?
A great story, my friends, check it out - also, side note - I think Mark did a great service capturing the Welsh names and celtic heritage. Welshies unite - I think Mark should be counted as one of us now 😁🏴
October 17, 2021
Witch by Mark Brownless.
For Sale
We are delighted to present Ty Llun - Lake House - which is, once again, available.
A beautiful 400-year-old waterfront property in an idyllic Welsh village, the property has plenty of character and comes complete with the spirit of a long dead witch.
It’s the ideal place for a couple to move to, to start again, to try and forget the heartbreak of the past.
And we are sure that, this time, she will leave you in peace…
This was a very good read. I loved the cover. Great story and characters. Victoria and Gabe and Mikey were my favourite characters. I wasn't sure about Idris Mal or Carol. I didn't trust them. The ending surprised me. I do hope there is more to come. 5*.
For Sale
We are delighted to present Ty Llun - Lake House - which is, once again, available.
A beautiful 400-year-old waterfront property in an idyllic Welsh village, the property has plenty of character and comes complete with the spirit of a long dead witch.
It’s the ideal place for a couple to move to, to start again, to try and forget the heartbreak of the past.
And we are sure that, this time, she will leave you in peace…
This was a very good read. I loved the cover. Great story and characters. Victoria and Gabe and Mikey were my favourite characters. I wasn't sure about Idris Mal or Carol. I didn't trust them. The ending surprised me. I do hope there is more to come. 5*.
April 1, 2024
It’s not often that a horror book has me spooked, but this had me glancing up at the window every now & again half expecting to see someone looking back at me. A tale steeped in local lore but with an eerily unexpected twist, the author had me hooked within just a few pages. A very well constructed story with a superbly enjoyable writing style. Five stars!
July 7, 2025
This was so good.
I was wanting them to just leave within the first 15%.
Kept me hooked and no spoiler but great ending too.
I often grump about horror endings. This one satisfied my well then, now what. Haha
The witch herself, horrible so she was great. The characters, the family, nice & normal.
Just go read it. It’s really good.
I was wanting them to just leave within the first 15%.
Kept me hooked and no spoiler but great ending too.
I often grump about horror endings. This one satisfied my well then, now what. Haha
The witch herself, horrible so she was great. The characters, the family, nice & normal.
Just go read it. It’s really good.
January 1, 2022
Excellent book. Pretty much what I expected from the description, which is a good 5hing. Believable dialogue, often quite humorous. Tension builds to a thrilling conclusion. I will look for more from this author.
April 20, 2022
Absolutely amazing!
Wow this was my 1st novel I've read of Mark brownless and it was outstanding! I couldn't put it down, it was just the kind of chilling, spooky horror story I love to read at night lol so yeah great story can't wait to read more thanks Mark 👍
Wow this was my 1st novel I've read of Mark brownless and it was outstanding! I couldn't put it down, it was just the kind of chilling, spooky horror story I love to read at night lol so yeah great story can't wait to read more thanks Mark 👍
May 4, 2022
Great Read
This is the first book by Mark Brownless I have read and I was glad I did. It is funny in parts and chilling in others. He really knows how and when to add just the right amount of each. Looking forward to reading another of this brilliant stories. :o)
This is the first book by Mark Brownless I have read and I was glad I did. It is funny in parts and chilling in others. He really knows how and when to add just the right amount of each. Looking forward to reading another of this brilliant stories. :o)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews