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Legacy of Darkness #2
Whickering Place
In this gripping follow-up to The Meadows, a woman trapped by her own fears inherits a house haunted by a legacy of darkness and a history of ritual sacrifices.
A violent attack that happened nearly a decade ago has left twenty-seven-year-old Avery Tullinger barely able to walk outside. Following her estranged father’s death, she inherits Whickering Place, a historic mansion in Asheville, North Carolina, currently occupied by two tenants: Colin Gallagher, a young doctor, and his mysterious brother, Pearse. Soon after moving in, Avery learns that her father’s life in the house was consumed by the supernatural … and the activity appears to be starting again.
As paranormal events within the house escalate, so does Avery’s attraction for Pearse, even though Colin warns her that his younger brother is involved in a dangerous cult called The Colony. Faced with losing Whickering Place, her heart, and even her life, Avery is forced to make unimaginable choices. And as Whickering Place becomes the focal point for The Colony’s bloody rituals, the house’s dark history threatens to repeat itself.
At turns a novel of terror and a story of love, Whickering Place is a paranormal thriller of nonstop suspense about the risks of living and loving outside safe boundaries and the relationships that change, motivate, and sustain us.
A violent attack that happened nearly a decade ago has left twenty-seven-year-old Avery Tullinger barely able to walk outside. Following her estranged father’s death, she inherits Whickering Place, a historic mansion in Asheville, North Carolina, currently occupied by two tenants: Colin Gallagher, a young doctor, and his mysterious brother, Pearse. Soon after moving in, Avery learns that her father’s life in the house was consumed by the supernatural … and the activity appears to be starting again.
As paranormal events within the house escalate, so does Avery’s attraction for Pearse, even though Colin warns her that his younger brother is involved in a dangerous cult called The Colony. Faced with losing Whickering Place, her heart, and even her life, Avery is forced to make unimaginable choices. And as Whickering Place becomes the focal point for The Colony’s bloody rituals, the house’s dark history threatens to repeat itself.
At turns a novel of terror and a story of love, Whickering Place is a paranormal thriller of nonstop suspense about the risks of living and loving outside safe boundaries and the relationships that change, motivate, and sustain us.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2019
326 people are currently reading
466 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 16, 2019
Wickering Place, a horror book, was a solid 4 stars. I really enjoyed The Meadows so I definitely wanted to read this follow-up book.
The book centers around main character Avery, a young agoraphobic woman, who inherits her (estranged) father’s home after his untimely death. Soon after moving in, Avery discovers that Wickering Place is not what she thought it would be-it’s actually an eerie mansion that contains harmful spirits and a place that The Colony desperately wants. The Colony being a powerful cult of modern day vampires. As Avery digs deeper into the home’s history and uncovers her father’s diary notes- she is unsure who to trust, including the brothers that are tenants in the home. Wickering Place is an enjoyable fast-paced book that I would highly recommend to fans of darker theme/ horror books. Thank you NetGalley for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The book centers around main character Avery, a young agoraphobic woman, who inherits her (estranged) father’s home after his untimely death. Soon after moving in, Avery discovers that Wickering Place is not what she thought it would be-it’s actually an eerie mansion that contains harmful spirits and a place that The Colony desperately wants. The Colony being a powerful cult of modern day vampires. As Avery digs deeper into the home’s history and uncovers her father’s diary notes- she is unsure who to trust, including the brothers that are tenants in the home. Wickering Place is an enjoyable fast-paced book that I would highly recommend to fans of darker theme/ horror books. Thank you NetGalley for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2019
(This review will be on my blog All the Ups and Downs soon.)
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I've been a fan of London Clarke since I read her debut novel Wildfell. I was thrilled when Whickering Place, the second novel in the Legacy of Darkness series, came out. I really enjoyed the first book in the series The Meadows. I must say that Whickering Place really blew me away!
If you're a fan of vampires, ghosts, and a touch of romance, you will love Whickering Place. I'm not going to rehash the synopsis since you will have probably read it yourself, and the synopsis does such a great job at describing this book. Even though I'm not a fan of the whole vampire movement in media, I really did enjoy Whickering Place. The plot was done brilliantly. I very much enjoyed the world building. In fact, I couldn't find one fault with the world building. Clarke does a fantastic job at making sure you're left feeling like you are a bystander amidst all the action. While there is a cliffhanger at the end of Whickering Place, this was done intentionally and will hopefully all will be revealed in the next book in the series.
The pacing was slow for about the first quarter or so of the book as the backstory and plot were being set up. I will admit that I did think about just giving up on Whickering Place, but I'm glad I kept reading because wow, the pacing definitely picked up after that! Once it picked up, there was no going back. I devoured each page. The suspense kept me on my toes! I was heavily invested in the story and all of the characters in Whickering Place.
Each and every character no matter how minor or major was written fantastically! Each character had their own personality, and it felt as if I was reading about a real flesh and blood person instead of just a character in a book. Avery was a great character. I could sort of relate to her agoraphobia. I used to be almost as bad as her. I felt bad for her, and I was always hoping she would get better so she could have more of a life. I kept thinking that Avery and myself could become great friends if she was real. It was almost as if every decision she made was one that I would have made. Pearse was definitely an interesting character. I did feel bad for him when it came to The Colony. I was always hoping he'd be able to get away from them. He seemed like he had a good heart. I also felt bad for Colin when it came to Avery. It was very obvious that he cared deeply for her. Colin definitely came across as a stand up sort of guy! I didn't really care for Maris, not because she was written poorly. She was actually written quite well! She just reminded me of those pretty mean girls I knew back when I was in school. I didn't know what to think of Cassie. I liked Cassie, and I loved her personality and how willing she was to help out, but I was never sure if I could trust her 100 percent.
Trigger warnings for Whickering Place include profanity (there's not a lot though), sexual situations (although these aren't graphic, and there aren't many sexual scenes), murder, attempted murder, alcohol, dealings with the occult, demons, and violence.
Overall, Whickering Place is a thrilling read which such a fantastic set of characters and an intense plot! This is one of those books that even though it starts out slow, it does a fantastic job at pulling you right into its pages and doesn't let you go! I would definitely recommend Whickering Place by London Clarke to everyone aged 17+ who loves getting lost in a good thriller.
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I've been a fan of London Clarke since I read her debut novel Wildfell. I was thrilled when Whickering Place, the second novel in the Legacy of Darkness series, came out. I really enjoyed the first book in the series The Meadows. I must say that Whickering Place really blew me away!
If you're a fan of vampires, ghosts, and a touch of romance, you will love Whickering Place. I'm not going to rehash the synopsis since you will have probably read it yourself, and the synopsis does such a great job at describing this book. Even though I'm not a fan of the whole vampire movement in media, I really did enjoy Whickering Place. The plot was done brilliantly. I very much enjoyed the world building. In fact, I couldn't find one fault with the world building. Clarke does a fantastic job at making sure you're left feeling like you are a bystander amidst all the action. While there is a cliffhanger at the end of Whickering Place, this was done intentionally and will hopefully all will be revealed in the next book in the series.
The pacing was slow for about the first quarter or so of the book as the backstory and plot were being set up. I will admit that I did think about just giving up on Whickering Place, but I'm glad I kept reading because wow, the pacing definitely picked up after that! Once it picked up, there was no going back. I devoured each page. The suspense kept me on my toes! I was heavily invested in the story and all of the characters in Whickering Place.
Each and every character no matter how minor or major was written fantastically! Each character had their own personality, and it felt as if I was reading about a real flesh and blood person instead of just a character in a book. Avery was a great character. I could sort of relate to her agoraphobia. I used to be almost as bad as her. I felt bad for her, and I was always hoping she would get better so she could have more of a life. I kept thinking that Avery and myself could become great friends if she was real. It was almost as if every decision she made was one that I would have made. Pearse was definitely an interesting character. I did feel bad for him when it came to The Colony. I was always hoping he'd be able to get away from them. He seemed like he had a good heart. I also felt bad for Colin when it came to Avery. It was very obvious that he cared deeply for her. Colin definitely came across as a stand up sort of guy! I didn't really care for Maris, not because she was written poorly. She was actually written quite well! She just reminded me of those pretty mean girls I knew back when I was in school. I didn't know what to think of Cassie. I liked Cassie, and I loved her personality and how willing she was to help out, but I was never sure if I could trust her 100 percent.
Trigger warnings for Whickering Place include profanity (there's not a lot though), sexual situations (although these aren't graphic, and there aren't many sexual scenes), murder, attempted murder, alcohol, dealings with the occult, demons, and violence.
Overall, Whickering Place is a thrilling read which such a fantastic set of characters and an intense plot! This is one of those books that even though it starts out slow, it does a fantastic job at pulling you right into its pages and doesn't let you go! I would definitely recommend Whickering Place by London Clarke to everyone aged 17+ who loves getting lost in a good thriller.
August 24, 2019
*I was given this novel in exchange for an honest review*
I didn't read the first one and wasn't lost at all, if you just wanted to read this one, you totally can. This story follows Avery and then sometimes switches to the demons in the attic but the only human we follow is Avery, who since her boyfriend was murdered in front of her has become a recluse to her house. It's so sad to see her this way but I can relate to her fear of stepping outside the door since I live in a rough place.
So the monsters in the house start to feed on her fear as The Colony sets their sight on her. I mean, everyone knows virgin blood is the best! Duh! But things go all wrong, she ends up falling for the wrong brother completely! But hey, she's not the sharpest tool in the toolshed but most people in horror novels aren't or it wouldn't work out very well.
This was creepy in the beginning and then kinda turns into something different. It stars with a more haunted house horror story (Which are my favorite) that turns into vampires.... but not actual vampires, humans that drink blood...
I loved the writing and the flow of the novel was never boring at all. The characters are well developed and it's a good horror story, what more can I say?
I didn't read the first one and wasn't lost at all, if you just wanted to read this one, you totally can. This story follows Avery and then sometimes switches to the demons in the attic but the only human we follow is Avery, who since her boyfriend was murdered in front of her has become a recluse to her house. It's so sad to see her this way but I can relate to her fear of stepping outside the door since I live in a rough place.
So the monsters in the house start to feed on her fear as The Colony sets their sight on her. I mean, everyone knows virgin blood is the best! Duh! But things go all wrong, she ends up falling for the wrong brother completely! But hey, she's not the sharpest tool in the toolshed but most people in horror novels aren't or it wouldn't work out very well.
This was creepy in the beginning and then kinda turns into something different. It stars with a more haunted house horror story (Which are my favorite) that turns into vampires.... but not actual vampires, humans that drink blood...
I loved the writing and the flow of the novel was never boring at all. The characters are well developed and it's a good horror story, what more can I say?
August 12, 2019
This really isn’t my sort of thing, mostly because of the modern day vampires, but the first book in this series was good. Really good. Surprisingly good. One of the best modern day vampire stories I’ve read, quite possibly. It had a lot going on and was very well written. Obviously, book two merited checking out. So I checked it out. Even though I don’t normally go for sequels or series. In fact, this isn’t a traditional either of those, it’s a book set in the same world and location (the infamous Whickering Place mansion), but it can easily be read as a standalone. There is still the dreaded vampire cult, The Colony, and this time they set their attention on Whickering Place’s latest owner, Avery, a traumatized agoraphobic young woman, who inherits the eerie dwelling from her estranged father. The agoraphobic angle was a nice touch, she is more or less forced to stay inside a place most would leave in a second, a place where disconnected phones rings and the walls whisper of murder. But Avery isn’t alone, she soon finds herself in a hot and messy love triangle with two hunky brothers who are conveniently enough tenants at the mansion. For me, it was this aspect of the novel that kinda brought it down a peg or two. I understand the need for such a dramatic amplification and it was rendered realistically (read less cheesy than traditionally allotted) enough, but it’s such a genre cliché, it just seemed unoriginal and slightly cheap. Not in general cheap, just for the level of writing Clarke proved herself able to deliver with book one. Mind you, this book is still well written and it reads very quickly, it’s enjoyable by all accounts, it just isn’t as notably good as its predecessor. It might be the sequel thing, they seldom maintain the freshness of the original. I still think the cult angle is lots of fun if one must talk of vampires, but overall this is a much simpler and less interesting story. And having that been said, I probably wouldn’t be averse to book 3 whenever that comes out, but without caring too much either way. Just to be clear, the intent of this review isn’t to discourage the readers from this book, it’s more to caution then to reduce expectations they might have from book 1. This was still plenty entertaining, just less complex of a plot and too heavy on the romance for my tastes. Thanks Netgalley.
September 8, 2019
Whickering Place is my second book by Clark. Sadly I didn’t like this one as much as Hoarder House. I found it less original, the characters less compelling, and the flow at times a little painfully slow. There were also several typos which at times distracted.
A deeply traumatic event leaves Avery with a crippling case of agoraphobia for ten years. When her estranged artist father dies, she inherent Whickering Place - queue spooky theme music here - a large home with a troubled past shrouded in history. It’s the typical set up for some form of haunted house story. Clark goes through all the right motions in setting her story up, but I personally felt a bit like boxes were being checked.
The house does have a variety of troubling personages who begin vying with Avery for control of the old estate. Bowman takes two horror story standards and finds news spins on them. This should have kept them interesting, but I thought it ultimately made them a little more dull. I didn’t find the requisite explorations into how they are different interesting. It was sort of tedious, especially by the end.
Avery’s struggles with agoraphobia and posttraumatic stress disorder are consuming for her throughout the first 2/3 of the book. Without these character traits she would’ve been a very dull protagonist. However, they didn’t add enough to make me feel like she was a fully three dimensional character, especially after these traits seems inexplicable sporadical as the plot moves forward.
A love triangle is added to the story which, I’m sorry to say, just seemed sort of groan worthy. I also wondered if Clark thought so as well, since the triangle seems half heartedly committed to. But feeling half heartedly installed into the narrative, it makes me wonder why it was there at all.
There are also a series of chapters interspersed throughout the novel from the perspective of the antagonists which “haunt” Whickering Place. I never found these quite believable. They seemed off, like they were intrusive into a story that really could have gone better with out them.
A deeply traumatic event leaves Avery with a crippling case of agoraphobia for ten years. When her estranged artist father dies, she inherent Whickering Place - queue spooky theme music here - a large home with a troubled past shrouded in history. It’s the typical set up for some form of haunted house story. Clark goes through all the right motions in setting her story up, but I personally felt a bit like boxes were being checked.
The house does have a variety of troubling personages who begin vying with Avery for control of the old estate. Bowman takes two horror story standards and finds news spins on them. This should have kept them interesting, but I thought it ultimately made them a little more dull. I didn’t find the requisite explorations into how they are different interesting. It was sort of tedious, especially by the end.
Avery’s struggles with agoraphobia and posttraumatic stress disorder are consuming for her throughout the first 2/3 of the book. Without these character traits she would’ve been a very dull protagonist. However, they didn’t add enough to make me feel like she was a fully three dimensional character, especially after these traits seems inexplicable sporadical as the plot moves forward.
A love triangle is added to the story which, I’m sorry to say, just seemed sort of groan worthy. I also wondered if Clark thought so as well, since the triangle seems half heartedly committed to. But feeling half heartedly installed into the narrative, it makes me wonder why it was there at all.
There are also a series of chapters interspersed throughout the novel from the perspective of the antagonists which “haunt” Whickering Place. I never found these quite believable. They seemed off, like they were intrusive into a story that really could have gone better with out them.
December 10, 2025
nope nope nope
the 1st book kinda had a creepy vibe to it so I was hoping it would carry onto this book with cults and vampires. hoping they'd turn it scary alas it was a boring love story.
the 1st book kinda had a creepy vibe to it so I was hoping it would carry onto this book with cults and vampires. hoping they'd turn it scary alas it was a boring love story.
August 13, 2019
Vampires, demons, haunted houses, OH MY.
This was a unique book and I'm happy I got the chance to read it. I haven't been reading much horror lately but as soon as I saw a description for a haunted house I was ALL OVER THIS.
It begins with blood. Avery and her boyfriend are stabbed and it leads to two lives ending. Her boyfriend, Vince, has perished in the attack and Avery has developed agoraphobia. I mean, who wouldn't after all of that?
We forward nine years and she is still suffering from her trauma. Her father has recently died and left her a mansion, Whickering Place, and that is where our story takes us. To this beyond haunted abode that has claimed so many lives with demonry, vampiric bullshit, and assholes running around in cult masks.
This was a good book with an interesting premise and had so many great moments and fascinating characters. I'm not one for vampires, they do nothing for me but I did enjoy this. There is an enticing love triangle which I'm surprised I actually enjoyed and whispered under my breath rooting for one brother or the other. YES, the love triangle involved brothers. WEIRD BUT NECESSARY.
This book does flounder a bit around the halfway mark and I found myself getting bored and wondering where it was going. It could have been much much shorter in my opinion and some of the characters were parodies of themselves. The demons were...funny. Like, they tried so hard to be scary but...it was hilarious.
Overall, this is a fun book to read especially if you're a lover of vampires, hot brothers, and weird haunted houses.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. Let's get sucked down by some hot vampires.
This was a unique book and I'm happy I got the chance to read it. I haven't been reading much horror lately but as soon as I saw a description for a haunted house I was ALL OVER THIS.
It begins with blood. Avery and her boyfriend are stabbed and it leads to two lives ending. Her boyfriend, Vince, has perished in the attack and Avery has developed agoraphobia. I mean, who wouldn't after all of that?
We forward nine years and she is still suffering from her trauma. Her father has recently died and left her a mansion, Whickering Place, and that is where our story takes us. To this beyond haunted abode that has claimed so many lives with demonry, vampiric bullshit, and assholes running around in cult masks.
This was a good book with an interesting premise and had so many great moments and fascinating characters. I'm not one for vampires, they do nothing for me but I did enjoy this. There is an enticing love triangle which I'm surprised I actually enjoyed and whispered under my breath rooting for one brother or the other. YES, the love triangle involved brothers. WEIRD BUT NECESSARY.
This book does flounder a bit around the halfway mark and I found myself getting bored and wondering where it was going. It could have been much much shorter in my opinion and some of the characters were parodies of themselves. The demons were...funny. Like, they tried so hard to be scary but...it was hilarious.
Overall, this is a fun book to read especially if you're a lover of vampires, hot brothers, and weird haunted houses.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. Let's get sucked down by some hot vampires.
June 7, 2020
Whickering Place is the first book I have read by London Clarke and I didn't realize it was the second book in a series. Even though it was book two, it did not hinder how it read and flowed. I was surprised how much I enjoyed reading this one. I fell in love with Avery, Colin and Pearse. While I am not hugely into vampires, but thank goodness they are not the shimmering in the sun type. If you enjoy a good horror and paranormal book, check this one out! Excited to go back and read The Meadows and the third installment of the Legacy of Darkness Series.
Thank you to BookSirens for the free digital copy in exchange for an honest and voluntary review of the book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to BookSirens for the free digital copy in exchange for an honest and voluntary review of the book. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2019
Wow!!!! What a mind trip. I requested this book via NetGalley and I must tell you that it is simply fantastic. I was immediately enthralled with the storyline and characters and I now must get my hands on the first book before the third book releases. It isn't often that I read books out of order but after reading the synopsis of Whickering Place, I did not care and I am truly pleased that I did.
I wanted to read this in one sitting but adult responsibilities would not allow it!! I highly recommend this pulse-pounding read to one and all.
{I requested a copy of this book via NetGalley and made no guarantee of a favorable review. The opinions contained herein are unbiased and my own.}
I wanted to read this in one sitting but adult responsibilities would not allow it!! I highly recommend this pulse-pounding read to one and all.
{I requested a copy of this book via NetGalley and made no guarantee of a favorable review. The opinions contained herein are unbiased and my own.}
January 13, 2025
I came into Whickering Place without having read the first book, but the story seems fully formed as a stand-alone. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Elizabeth Devault. The story is interesting, and for the most part engaging. Standard girl inherits weird old house with the twist that she is agoraphobic. For me, the style of the book was jarring. There is a particular second voice that intrudes, basically telling vice showing large chunks of information and personalizing the evil to the point that any tension from the house seems drained. The world-building hints at a lot of outside connections that are never explained and that never really show their face... it reads well but with a lot glossed over to the point it doesn't track in the real world.
The narrator's style grated a little too. About halfway through the book, I realized the cadence reminded me of William Shatner as James T. Kirk. It is somewhat better in the latter part of the book but was difficult going early on. I would recommend this to fans of dark Gothic romance.
The narrator's style grated a little too. About halfway through the book, I realized the cadence reminded me of William Shatner as James T. Kirk. It is somewhat better in the latter part of the book but was difficult going early on. I would recommend this to fans of dark Gothic romance.
September 5, 2022
A traumatised young woman becomes an unwitting legatee of darkness in this gripping paranormal thriller.
Whickering Place presents a new chapter in Avery's life, following unexpectedly inheriting the estate. Having suffered with agoraphobia for years following an attack that killed her boyfriend, Avery struggles to adapt to her new environment.
As she learns more about her deceased father and his home, she begins to experience strange and unsettling incidents, which may be preternatural in origin.
As the darkness surrounding Whickering Place intensifies, Avery discovers its secrets, some of which may prove impossible to escape.
'Whickering Place' is the second volume in London Clarke's 'Legacy of Darkness' trilogy, following 'The Meadows'. Both a standalone supernatural horror thriller following Avery's experiences after inheriting the eponymous property and another chapter in the history of The Colony, the vampire cult with links to murder and corruption, it immediately immerses you in its atmosphere of classic gothic horror through a modern lens, a well-crafted chiller that will keep you hooked late into the night.
Avery is a brilliant gothic heroine - vulnerable, traumatised, struggling with her mental health - her own demons and past experiences haunting her, making for a perfect storm with the supernatural activity in the house she inherits from her father. Gothic and horror fiction surrounding hauntings is at its best when it crosses into psychological horror territory and no one can quite trust what they are experiencing to be true or if their own senses are betraying them.
Along with the house, Avery inherits two tenants, brothers, both of whom she finds herself attracted to - one kind and dependable, the other mysterious and hiding dark secrets. Having been a recluse for so many years, they are the first people with whom she develops emotional connections in a long time, through which she finds herself facing her past and battling her mental health issues, now with more to lose than ever before.
We also delve deeper into the history and practices of vampire cult The Colony, their rituals of murder and sacrifice and the evil at its core, as they gather around Whickering Place and wish to claim it for their own. With flourishes of romance, a creeping, haunting atmosphere, entwined with glimpses of an investigation into a series of brutal murders, London Clarke has combined multiple elements to create an absorbing supernatural thriller, dripping in suspense.
The novel concludes with a tantalising glimpse of how the story will continue, leaving us in anticipation of 'Nocturne House', which concludes the trilogy.
Whickering Place presents a new chapter in Avery's life, following unexpectedly inheriting the estate. Having suffered with agoraphobia for years following an attack that killed her boyfriend, Avery struggles to adapt to her new environment.
As she learns more about her deceased father and his home, she begins to experience strange and unsettling incidents, which may be preternatural in origin.
As the darkness surrounding Whickering Place intensifies, Avery discovers its secrets, some of which may prove impossible to escape.
'Whickering Place' is the second volume in London Clarke's 'Legacy of Darkness' trilogy, following 'The Meadows'. Both a standalone supernatural horror thriller following Avery's experiences after inheriting the eponymous property and another chapter in the history of The Colony, the vampire cult with links to murder and corruption, it immediately immerses you in its atmosphere of classic gothic horror through a modern lens, a well-crafted chiller that will keep you hooked late into the night.
Avery is a brilliant gothic heroine - vulnerable, traumatised, struggling with her mental health - her own demons and past experiences haunting her, making for a perfect storm with the supernatural activity in the house she inherits from her father. Gothic and horror fiction surrounding hauntings is at its best when it crosses into psychological horror territory and no one can quite trust what they are experiencing to be true or if their own senses are betraying them.
Along with the house, Avery inherits two tenants, brothers, both of whom she finds herself attracted to - one kind and dependable, the other mysterious and hiding dark secrets. Having been a recluse for so many years, they are the first people with whom she develops emotional connections in a long time, through which she finds herself facing her past and battling her mental health issues, now with more to lose than ever before.
We also delve deeper into the history and practices of vampire cult The Colony, their rituals of murder and sacrifice and the evil at its core, as they gather around Whickering Place and wish to claim it for their own. With flourishes of romance, a creeping, haunting atmosphere, entwined with glimpses of an investigation into a series of brutal murders, London Clarke has combined multiple elements to create an absorbing supernatural thriller, dripping in suspense.
The novel concludes with a tantalising glimpse of how the story will continue, leaving us in anticipation of 'Nocturne House', which concludes the trilogy.
August 5, 2019
Received this book as an ARC, first time I have read this author. Avery moves into her dead fathers house and strange things start happening. This book has it all vampires, demons, love, death!! Read this book in a couple of hours, it was so good. This is the second book, it was so good that I have went and bought the first one.. I can’t wait til 2020 when the next one gets here. Loved every part of this book.
November 2, 2019
Second in the Legacy of Darkness series, this book had me believing in the modern day vampires it portrays and their cultish grip on their members. I’m not usually a fan of traditional vampire stories but this was more demonic and quite frighteningly realistic, with the ritualistic blood lust and obsession of The Colony. I will definitely read the next installment when it is released next year.
August 18, 2020
I enjoyed the first book, but this one just didn’t land for me. The helpless virgin leaves behind the good guy for the leather jacket wearing bad boy? Seriously? Gag. There are also alternating chapters written by the demons which completely cheapen the story and make it much less enjoyable.
September 15, 2020
This is the best Paranormal Thriller I have ever read. I greatly enjoyed The Meadows; however, this book, Whickering Place holds my heart. I was captivated from the beginning of this and the thrills and chills never ceased. The fact that it also featured a romantic element completely sealed the deal for me. London Clarke excels in this genre and if you haven't read anything by her, do yourself a favor, please read her books. She's a stellar storyteller that has a way with engaging your very soul. I cannot recommend this book enough and without giving anything away, it left me hanging and begging for a certain someone to please, please come back. Quite simply, I lost my heart to him. And I cannot wait to continue with Nocturne House. Keep writing London, I will read anything you put out, even if you scare me silly! Much love to you. shannonleah88
March 25, 2020
I started reading this book without the knowledge that this was the second part in a series but I fell like this did not affect the way it read! I do feel like I want to go back and read the first part and then re-read whickering place though!
I really enjoyed this book. The story follows a woman named Avery, who after witnessing her boyfriend be killed in front of her becomes a recluse and refuses to leave her house. When her estranged dad passes away and leaves her his home in his will she makes the massive leap and decides to leave the comfort of everything she knows and moves into it.
This is all a great step in Avery moving forward until strange things start occurring! If you are into horror/Thriller/vampire books you will definitely love this twisty turny novel. I'm not usually a fan of vampire novel's but this one has a slight twist to it and it made it better than the usual vampire book.
I really enjoyed this book. The story follows a woman named Avery, who after witnessing her boyfriend be killed in front of her becomes a recluse and refuses to leave her house. When her estranged dad passes away and leaves her his home in his will she makes the massive leap and decides to leave the comfort of everything she knows and moves into it.
This is all a great step in Avery moving forward until strange things start occurring! If you are into horror/Thriller/vampire books you will definitely love this twisty turny novel. I'm not usually a fan of vampire novel's but this one has a slight twist to it and it made it better than the usual vampire book.
January 5, 2025
The perfect soft horror for a scaredy-cat like me who can't handle spooks! I enjoyed reading about the house, and it's supernatural occupants were kind of fun in a creepy way. Avery's determination to stay at Whickering Place was impressive. I think I would have skedaddled at the first creaking floorboard.
August 29, 2020
The deadly cult
Whickering Place has an eerie atmosphere. Avery is trying to make a new life for herself. She inherits Whickering Place. She also inherits a dark legacy. Will she survive the machinations of a deadly cult dabbling in the occult? The story is brilliantly put together and difficult to put down. London Clarke is now on my list of favourites. I love her books.
Whickering Place has an eerie atmosphere. Avery is trying to make a new life for herself. She inherits Whickering Place. She also inherits a dark legacy. Will she survive the machinations of a deadly cult dabbling in the occult? The story is brilliantly put together and difficult to put down. London Clarke is now on my list of favourites. I love her books.
December 27, 2019
'Whickering Place' is an intense horror read. . I really enjoyed the mood, characters and backstory. This is the first book that I have read by this author and I found it to be interesting.
August 27, 2020
One hell of a tense and creepy story!
Vampires and blood sacrifices, a sudden inheritance and an agoraphobic young woman, what could possibly go wrong? A must read for supernatural lovers!
Vampires and blood sacrifices, a sudden inheritance and an agoraphobic young woman, what could possibly go wrong? A must read for supernatural lovers!
July 1, 2020
Preface: I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
This book is apparently a sequel to another, which wasn't in the blurb I received before choosing to review this, but you don't really need to read the first one to read this one (I think it just contains more details about the cult). To be honest, you could probably stop at this one, though the ending is a bit open-ended and definitely leans into the possibility of a sequel.
Overall, this was a satisfactory read. It's not amazing, but it's not awful, either. Our main protagonist is likable, and her agoraphobia is interesting (though maddening at times, which is kinda the point). Our two main male leads are fine too, though they're not super fleshed-out. I was not at all impressed by the demons whose collective POV we get sprinkled in now and then - they felt very typical and lame - but the vampires are fun. I really liked the moment where it "clicked" that this was a vampire book, and I could look back at all the sneaky ways they wormed their way into Avery's life and home.
Sadly, the plot is a little unfocused/rambling, and goes on a bit too long. The main issue is Avery can't really /do/ anything against the cult. She's powerless compared to them, and ultimately her presence in no way impacts the ending of the novel, aside from taking a few characters out. Major events would have transpired whether she was there or not, and that's kinda disappointing.
Overall, though, it's still a solid paranormal horror novel, and might interest those who enjoy the genre.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
This book is apparently a sequel to another, which wasn't in the blurb I received before choosing to review this, but you don't really need to read the first one to read this one (I think it just contains more details about the cult). To be honest, you could probably stop at this one, though the ending is a bit open-ended and definitely leans into the possibility of a sequel.
Overall, this was a satisfactory read. It's not amazing, but it's not awful, either. Our main protagonist is likable, and her agoraphobia is interesting (though maddening at times, which is kinda the point). Our two main male leads are fine too, though they're not super fleshed-out. I was not at all impressed by the demons whose collective POV we get sprinkled in now and then - they felt very typical and lame - but the vampires are fun. I really liked the moment where it "clicked" that this was a vampire book, and I could look back at all the sneaky ways they wormed their way into Avery's life and home.
Sadly, the plot is a little unfocused/rambling, and goes on a bit too long. The main issue is Avery can't really /do/ anything against the cult. She's powerless compared to them, and ultimately her presence in no way impacts the ending of the novel, aside from taking a few characters out. Major events would have transpired whether she was there or not, and that's kinda disappointing.
Overall, though, it's still a solid paranormal horror novel, and might interest those who enjoy the genre.
September 9, 2019
Note: I received a promotional copy of this book for review purposes.
This was my first contact with this writer, but I will be looking for more of her work! I did not know before reading this book, but it is apparently the second book in the Legacy of Darkness series (The Meadows is the first book.)
This book takes place in Asheville, NC. It involves a young woman who inherits a house there (obviously I'm leaving out a lot of detail, but I personally don't like to include anything that resembles a spoiler!) and moves in. Weirdness ensues!! ;-)
I found the book to be well written and a quite easy read. But it really did hold my interest AND I found myself liking the central character and eager to find out what was happing to her. It wasn't as gory as some I have read (I'm a BIG fan of gore) but it was gory enough to keep me interested. Also, although there is some sexual content it is NOT graphic, which I appreciated. I read horror for the, well, horror, NOT for sex. Some horror novels read like soft (or hard in some cases....) porn and I don't really care for it. Graphic violence and gore, yes please. Graphic sex, unless it somehow is important to the plot, is not my favorite. This book got it JUST RIGHT in that case.
The plot is somewhat straightforward, but there were enough twists to keep me interested. The characters were well fleshed out with enough detail to let me get to know them and allow me to like or dislike them without being overly elaborate. Didn't bog me down in unnecessary details!
All in all a pleasant and enjoyable read!
This was my first contact with this writer, but I will be looking for more of her work! I did not know before reading this book, but it is apparently the second book in the Legacy of Darkness series (The Meadows is the first book.)
This book takes place in Asheville, NC. It involves a young woman who inherits a house there (obviously I'm leaving out a lot of detail, but I personally don't like to include anything that resembles a spoiler!) and moves in. Weirdness ensues!! ;-)
I found the book to be well written and a quite easy read. But it really did hold my interest AND I found myself liking the central character and eager to find out what was happing to her. It wasn't as gory as some I have read (I'm a BIG fan of gore) but it was gory enough to keep me interested. Also, although there is some sexual content it is NOT graphic, which I appreciated. I read horror for the, well, horror, NOT for sex. Some horror novels read like soft (or hard in some cases....) porn and I don't really care for it. Graphic violence and gore, yes please. Graphic sex, unless it somehow is important to the plot, is not my favorite. This book got it JUST RIGHT in that case.
The plot is somewhat straightforward, but there were enough twists to keep me interested. The characters were well fleshed out with enough detail to let me get to know them and allow me to like or dislike them without being overly elaborate. Didn't bog me down in unnecessary details!
All in all a pleasant and enjoyable read!
August 30, 2019
Thanks to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for the eARC.
Avery suffers from agoraphobia and has done so for the past decade after the murder of her boyfriend in which she was severely wounded physically and mentally. She has barely left her home, but has been seeing a psychiatrist and takes medication. Now, however, she has to leave home for the mansion her father left her, Whickering Place, in Asheville, N.C. She is absolutely terrified, as if none of the years of therapy even happened.
Once at Whickering Place, she will meet the love of her life, and experience horrifying encounters of the paranormal and human kinds, almost losing her life and her sanity in the process.
This was a fun, eventful ride, a bit over the top, but enjoyable enough for me to look forward to the 3rd in the series that's coming out in 2020.
Avery suffers from agoraphobia and has done so for the past decade after the murder of her boyfriend in which she was severely wounded physically and mentally. She has barely left her home, but has been seeing a psychiatrist and takes medication. Now, however, she has to leave home for the mansion her father left her, Whickering Place, in Asheville, N.C. She is absolutely terrified, as if none of the years of therapy even happened.
Once at Whickering Place, she will meet the love of her life, and experience horrifying encounters of the paranormal and human kinds, almost losing her life and her sanity in the process.
This was a fun, eventful ride, a bit over the top, but enjoyable enough for me to look forward to the 3rd in the series that's coming out in 2020.
June 7, 2020
A plot that was superior.
I have not read a paranormal thriller in a long time and I enjoyed this one. The author has given the reader a strongly written tale that was powerful in parts and a plot that was superior. Vampires are really not my thing but when I saw the cover it called to me. Each character was well developed with their own personalities. There is some profanity so it may not be a tale for everyone but there really is not a great deal of that. Avery’s inheritance was not so grand and someone with agoraphobia well this opens a whole can of worms. It was a unique piece rather dark but very captivating. If you like this kind of paranormal this is a good one to pick up. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
I have not read a paranormal thriller in a long time and I enjoyed this one. The author has given the reader a strongly written tale that was powerful in parts and a plot that was superior. Vampires are really not my thing but when I saw the cover it called to me. Each character was well developed with their own personalities. There is some profanity so it may not be a tale for everyone but there really is not a great deal of that. Avery’s inheritance was not so grand and someone with agoraphobia well this opens a whole can of worms. It was a unique piece rather dark but very captivating. If you like this kind of paranormal this is a good one to pick up. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
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August 9, 2019I was very intrigued by the cover and description of this book as I love a good haunted house story, unfortunately this book wasn't for me.
I liked the romance side of things, the love triangle etc and I loved the creepy ringing phone that kept turning up throughout the book and the little scares that made me wish the lights were on. However, I did not like how the demons had a narrative voice. I prefer to have my evil be voiceless so I have to guess at their motives. It makes it feel more scary for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, BooksGoSocial for an electronic advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. As always all opinions are my own.
I liked the romance side of things, the love triangle etc and I loved the creepy ringing phone that kept turning up throughout the book and the little scares that made me wish the lights were on. However, I did not like how the demons had a narrative voice. I prefer to have my evil be voiceless so I have to guess at their motives. It makes it feel more scary for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, BooksGoSocial for an electronic advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. As always all opinions are my own.
August 17, 2019
Vampires........I don’t do Vampires!!! they are on my no-no list. I thought this was a supernatural and haunted house themed book until I started reading it. What a pleasant surprise I got. Apart from one small lull in the middle it was a fast-paced and fascinating read. I had mixed emotions, feeling this was a modern day story but somehow I got a feeling of the past too.I will be definitely be reading the next book in the series. Many thanks to Netgalley and Books Go Social for giving me the opportunity
to read this magical book.
to read this magical book.
September 6, 2019
Whickering Place' is an intriguing horror read for any advent horror fan. It manages to steer you in a completely opposite direction than what you original think it will go in. I really enjoyed the mood, characters and backstory.
Just under 500 pages, this is not a quick read. The pacing can slow in places, but does pick up quickly after.
Just under 500 pages, this is not a quick read. The pacing can slow in places, but does pick up quickly after.
June 8, 2020
What happens when you combine a strange, murderous cult, an estranged father with scary house and his agoraphobic daughter? You get this story. It was an interesting supernatural mystery. I don't really think that it does the book justice to call it horror. I enjoyed it.
I received a free copy from Hidden Gems Books in return for an honest review.
I received a free copy from Hidden Gems Books in return for an honest review.
December 9, 2020
**Presented with an ARC via HiddenGems in exchange for an honest review.**
I fell in love with this book from the prologue. Those first 3 pages (if you’re reading it in Kindle, likely less if you’re reading the paperback or hardback version) are so damn powerful. They catch you and hold you entranced.
One thing, among so many, that I absolutely love about this book is how we get an honest and pure in depth look at the struggles of recovery, ptsd, and mental health issues following Avery’s attack, and all that comes after. It is rare that I find an author truly willing to delve deeply and honestly into that murky darkness.
This is a book that I cannot recommend enough. It touches you so deeply, not only for Avery and what she is going through, but also from the house’s perspective and the spirits that lie within. The stories within capture you mercilessly and leave you in such an emotional and euphoric book-haze at the end that you simply have to close your eyes and let yourself breathe.
The honesty of depth
It isn’t often that I come across an author who can truly write the struggles and triumphs of mental illness, one who understands just how much the tiniest change in a routine can spark the undeniable magnitude of the stress it causes someone dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or agoraphobia—as the main character, Avery, struggles with. You feel what she feels. As I read the book, I found myself cheering Avery on for the small victories and encouraging her for the next, smoothing her and wishing to hug her, while also loving every moment of every chapter. There is so much to love.
I fell in love with this book from the prologue. Those first 3 pages (if you’re reading it in Kindle, likely less if you’re reading the paperback or hardback version) are so damn powerful. They catch you and hold you entranced.
One thing, among so many, that I absolutely love about this book is how we get an honest and pure in depth look at the struggles of recovery, ptsd, and mental health issues following Avery’s attack, and all that comes after. It is rare that I find an author truly willing to delve deeply and honestly into that murky darkness.
This is a book that I cannot recommend enough. It touches you so deeply, not only for Avery and what she is going through, but also from the house’s perspective and the spirits that lie within. The stories within capture you mercilessly and leave you in such an emotional and euphoric book-haze at the end that you simply have to close your eyes and let yourself breathe.
The honesty of depth
It isn’t often that I come across an author who can truly write the struggles and triumphs of mental illness, one who understands just how much the tiniest change in a routine can spark the undeniable magnitude of the stress it causes someone dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or agoraphobia—as the main character, Avery, struggles with. You feel what she feels. As I read the book, I found myself cheering Avery on for the small victories and encouraging her for the next, smoothing her and wishing to hug her, while also loving every moment of every chapter. There is so much to love.
August 28, 2023
The most boring 'thriller' I've ever read. To be fair I haven't read the book that precedes this one, although it reads like a standalone novel.
The chapters from the demons' point of view ruined the book for me. It removed all the tension while they explain to the reader their plans and activities, and the book could have been written without them completely and it would have added so much more drama. We could have wondered whether Colin is part of the cult or not, or whether Pearse is really trying to leave them or it's all an act for Avery, but instead the demons flat out tell you the brothers are ruining their plans.
At no point did I feel creeped out, scared, or gripped reading this. It felt really obvious the entire time what was going to happen.
There is also a lot of telling, not showing, and breezing through major character development. When Avery goes out on her own and gets her hair cut for the first time in twenty years, and even when she loses her virginity, the author gives like 2 paragraphs and then on to the next thing.
The agoraphobia angle was interesting, especially for a haunted house, but the fact that she has sex one time and suddenly it's mostly cured? Yeah, I don't think so. I love haunted house stories but this was disappointing.
The chapters from the demons' point of view ruined the book for me. It removed all the tension while they explain to the reader their plans and activities, and the book could have been written without them completely and it would have added so much more drama. We could have wondered whether Colin is part of the cult or not, or whether Pearse is really trying to leave them or it's all an act for Avery, but instead the demons flat out tell you the brothers are ruining their plans.
At no point did I feel creeped out, scared, or gripped reading this. It felt really obvious the entire time what was going to happen.
There is also a lot of telling, not showing, and breezing through major character development. When Avery goes out on her own and gets her hair cut for the first time in twenty years, and even when she loses her virginity, the author gives like 2 paragraphs and then on to the next thing.
The agoraphobia angle was interesting, especially for a haunted house, but the fact that she has sex one time and suddenly it's mostly cured? Yeah, I don't think so. I love haunted house stories but this was disappointing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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