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The House That Death Built
“I had married a madman. Even worse, I was in love with one.”
Norfolk, 1816
Joy’s idea of a happily ever after was simple: A comfortable home, a loving husband, children of her own, and plenty of spaniel puppies to trip over. When Arthur Marco promises her the life she dreams of she happily accepts his proposal.
When she joins him at his ancestral home she finds her passionate and loving husband has become irrational and tyrannical. She becomes a prisoner in his presence while he rips the house apart searching for something.
Joy begins her own quiet search for answers. She dives into the Marco family past and the young brides who have all died there. Every truth she reveals brings her one step closer to the evil in the house and the death that will follow.
“Absolutely addicting! A story of love, family secrets, and mystery.” – Goodreads review
Norfolk, 1816
Joy’s idea of a happily ever after was simple: A comfortable home, a loving husband, children of her own, and plenty of spaniel puppies to trip over. When Arthur Marco promises her the life she dreams of she happily accepts his proposal.
When she joins him at his ancestral home she finds her passionate and loving husband has become irrational and tyrannical. She becomes a prisoner in his presence while he rips the house apart searching for something.
Joy begins her own quiet search for answers. She dives into the Marco family past and the young brides who have all died there. Every truth she reveals brings her one step closer to the evil in the house and the death that will follow.
“Absolutely addicting! A story of love, family secrets, and mystery.” – Goodreads review
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2020
105 people are currently reading
3348 people want to read
About the author
Mel Stone
14 books60 followersMel wrote, illustrated, and published her first book at the age of five. It was not a huge success, but undaunted she plunged herself into reading every book she could get her hands on. She found a love for ghost stories, Gothic tales, suspense-driven works of fiction, and of course a little romance never hurt. Now she combines all three of her favorite genres and writes up tales that feel familiar until you find out things are not what they seem. She lives in the Wasatch Mountains and enjoys time with her children, her husband, and her 100-pound lab/mastiff/dane, Boudica, who thinks she's a lap dog. She also has a serious addiction to yarn, fiber arts, and crochet hooks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
March 27, 2022
No-- just no.
I really wanted to love this story. According to the description it had everything in it that I love. None of what was written worked for ME.
The story time was supposed to be set sometime after the Napoleonic War. While I do not necessarily get upset if the characters speak or act differently than the time period they are supposed to be in, in this story I could find absolutely nothing that gave me the feeling that they were in this time frame.
The heroine's "secret" was a strange one. While admittedly I do not know if her secret would have made a difference for her marriageability, for the times that this story was set into I thought this was plainly strange. I think that the class difference between her and the hero would have been a much bigger obstacle.
Normally I love a story that is supposed to have a gothic setting. Especially when a large house that is said to be haunted is part of the story. For me, unfortunately, none of it worked. I just wasn't feeling the atmosphere that I was expecting.
This is probably a me thing, but when I read reviews of this story I read a number of times that the banter between the heroine and hero was wonderful. I actually found the banter more like a mother scolding a child.
I found the last 1/3rd of this book painfully ridiculous...
I know from the review that a lot of people really enjoyed this book and I am glad they had a good reading experience. I, unfortunately, didn't.
I really wanted to love this story. According to the description it had everything in it that I love. None of what was written worked for ME.
The story time was supposed to be set sometime after the Napoleonic War. While I do not necessarily get upset if the characters speak or act differently than the time period they are supposed to be in, in this story I could find absolutely nothing that gave me the feeling that they were in this time frame.
The heroine's "secret" was a strange one. While admittedly I do not know if her secret would have made a difference for her marriageability, for the times that this story was set into I thought this was plainly strange. I think that the class difference between her and the hero would have been a much bigger obstacle.
Normally I love a story that is supposed to have a gothic setting. Especially when a large house that is said to be haunted is part of the story. For me, unfortunately, none of it worked. I just wasn't feeling the atmosphere that I was expecting.
This is probably a me thing, but when I read reviews of this story I read a number of times that the banter between the heroine and hero was wonderful. I actually found the banter more like a mother scolding a child.
I found the last 1/3rd of this book painfully ridiculous...
I know from the review that a lot of people really enjoyed this book and I am glad they had a good reading experience. I, unfortunately, didn't.
October 29, 2020
This could be such a wonderful movie! A little fog here, a crow there and an amazing house with spider webs and this could be a blockbuster.
The plot was good and reminded me of the classic The Picture of Dorian Grey. It was indeed a little gothic in writing style and the beginning was amazing!
I thought that this book will land on my "favourites" shelf, but after the H and h married, all was boring and I just could not feel their connection and the plot. There was no twist and that was a problem. The ending was predictable, and I was bored as hell!
The plot was good and reminded me of the classic The Picture of Dorian Grey. It was indeed a little gothic in writing style and the beginning was amazing!
I thought that this book will land on my "favourites" shelf, but after the H and h married, all was boring and I just could not feel their connection and the plot. There was no twist and that was a problem. The ending was predictable, and I was bored as hell!
August 13, 2020
The House That Death Built: A Gothic Thriller of Romance and Mystery
Mel Stone
https://m.facebook.com/authormelstone/
Release date 07/07/2020
Blurb :
A country girl. A grieving stranger. And a secret that will bind them forever…
Arthur knows nothing but sorrow. His past is filled with secrets, trials, and death. On his way to settle his affairs with his deceased wife’s family he tears his shirt and enters a small village shop for a repair. There he meets Joy.
Joy is not impressed by the stranger visiting their little village. On her first impression, she calls him a “disgusting beast” and is mortified when he returns to seek out her company. Their exchanges are spirited and flirtatious, and she begins to soften her heart and imagine a future with him.
As Arthur’s family legacy comes to light, a sinister secret comes between them, one Arthur refuses to tell her. Joy finds herself in danger and comes to realize a future between them could spell disaster for them both.
What is Arthur hiding? What did happen to his first wife? Is the same fate about to befall Joy?
My review :
Will love be enough or too much ...
Wow, just wow!
What an awesome tale, with a slow rising tension until it reaches its climax.
It was such an unputdownable read, I finished it one setting early this morning or late last night.
Each chapter Is divided in two parts, Arthur’s diary extract and Joy’s POV. I loved how Arthur’s words gave an input about the event to come or enhance the stress of the moment.
And while this story is labeled as a gothic tale, I will not call it dark, as Arthur and Joy are together like fire and coal, she is a candle to Arthur’s moth. He tried to persuade himself to not pursue her, but every time he comes back.
They have a whirling fast-forward courtship when the mystery part is on slow-building side, going at a snail pace with unexpected twists and turns.
I just adored Arthur and Joy, they are not without faults, why I also got upset at them but they have the best intentions in their heart, still they hurt the other.
Mrs Stone shares with us a terrific and magnificent tale of love and its power or hold over one’s personality all the while adding tiny dents on the journey of this unconventional romance.
While my brain was able to separate the too peculiar occurrences from the course of usual life, I did not see until the very end how everything was embedded.
Hats off to Mrs Stone for this stimulating and surprising wonderful story of a love beyond the difference and rationality.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, I also purchased my own copy. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Mel Stone
https://m.facebook.com/authormelstone/
Release date 07/07/2020
Blurb :
A country girl. A grieving stranger. And a secret that will bind them forever…
Arthur knows nothing but sorrow. His past is filled with secrets, trials, and death. On his way to settle his affairs with his deceased wife’s family he tears his shirt and enters a small village shop for a repair. There he meets Joy.
Joy is not impressed by the stranger visiting their little village. On her first impression, she calls him a “disgusting beast” and is mortified when he returns to seek out her company. Their exchanges are spirited and flirtatious, and she begins to soften her heart and imagine a future with him.
As Arthur’s family legacy comes to light, a sinister secret comes between them, one Arthur refuses to tell her. Joy finds herself in danger and comes to realize a future between them could spell disaster for them both.
What is Arthur hiding? What did happen to his first wife? Is the same fate about to befall Joy?
My review :
Will love be enough or too much ...
Wow, just wow!
What an awesome tale, with a slow rising tension until it reaches its climax.
It was such an unputdownable read, I finished it one setting early this morning or late last night.
Each chapter Is divided in two parts, Arthur’s diary extract and Joy’s POV. I loved how Arthur’s words gave an input about the event to come or enhance the stress of the moment.
And while this story is labeled as a gothic tale, I will not call it dark, as Arthur and Joy are together like fire and coal, she is a candle to Arthur’s moth. He tried to persuade himself to not pursue her, but every time he comes back.
They have a whirling fast-forward courtship when the mystery part is on slow-building side, going at a snail pace with unexpected twists and turns.
I just adored Arthur and Joy, they are not without faults, why I also got upset at them but they have the best intentions in their heart, still they hurt the other.
Mrs Stone shares with us a terrific and magnificent tale of love and its power or hold over one’s personality all the while adding tiny dents on the journey of this unconventional romance.
While my brain was able to separate the too peculiar occurrences from the course of usual life, I did not see until the very end how everything was embedded.
Hats off to Mrs Stone for this stimulating and surprising wonderful story of a love beyond the difference and rationality.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, I also purchased my own copy. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
December 21, 2021
In all honesty, I struggled to get through this book. I could tell it wasn't for me after reading chapter one, but I still decided to give it a chance because I don't like quitting on books.
So the description makes it sound like the hero and heroine had this sweet romantic story and then he starts to change. That's not exactly what happens.
In the very first chapter we can see how moody and unpredictable the future husband will be. And all the glaring (from both sides) drove me insane. And why is he even interested in her? Because she talked back to him and that justifies him hounding her day in and day out until she agrees to marry him. This man DOES NOT take no for an answer.
But you know what, that's not even it.
The book is split up into three parts. Part one is their courtship and while I didn't like it that much, it wasn't boring. They also work together in their own weird way.
Part two is the calm before the storm aka the boring part. I wanted to quit so many times during this part but I'm happy I didn't. I don't think the book would've suffered if this part was cut shorter.
Part three is the mysterious curse but the action doesn't really pick up again until around 80%.
I like the idea behind the curse and I wanted to smack Joy for doing what she did near the end instead of believing but I'm glad it's fixed.
But also, the epilogue wasn't needed. I think that just deflated the story. The ending was near perfect on its own.
Some other issues:
1. Joy is 21 which is hard for me to believe because she acts like a teenager and talks like one too (with some fancier words as it were).
2. Her family straight up let her stalker in like he was their best friend even after Joy told them everything. I get that she's a spinster but that's too much enthusiasm.
3. I think some of the side characters could've been fleshed out more while others came out of nowhere only to do something "shocking". I had trouble forming attachments to any of them except the best boy Pip.
But don't let my opinion decide your own. If you want to read this go ahead, you might love it.
*Thank you to BookSirens for providing me with a copy of this book for which I'm leaving a review voluntarily*
So the description makes it sound like the hero and heroine had this sweet romantic story and then he starts to change. That's not exactly what happens.
In the very first chapter we can see how moody and unpredictable the future husband will be. And all the glaring (from both sides) drove me insane. And why is he even interested in her? Because she talked back to him and that justifies him hounding her day in and day out until she agrees to marry him. This man DOES NOT take no for an answer.
But you know what, that's not even it.
The book is split up into three parts. Part one is their courtship and while I didn't like it that much, it wasn't boring. They also work together in their own weird way.
Part two is the calm before the storm aka the boring part. I wanted to quit so many times during this part but I'm happy I didn't. I don't think the book would've suffered if this part was cut shorter.
Part three is the mysterious curse but the action doesn't really pick up again until around 80%.
I like the idea behind the curse and I wanted to smack Joy for doing what she did near the end instead of believing but I'm glad it's fixed.
But also, the epilogue wasn't needed. I think that just deflated the story. The ending was near perfect on its own.
Some other issues:
1. Joy is 21 which is hard for me to believe because she acts like a teenager and talks like one too (with some fancier words as it were).
2. Her family straight up let her stalker in like he was their best friend even after Joy told them everything. I get that she's a spinster but that's too much enthusiasm.
3. I think some of the side characters could've been fleshed out more while others came out of nowhere only to do something "shocking". I had trouble forming attachments to any of them except the best boy Pip.
But don't let my opinion decide your own. If you want to read this go ahead, you might love it.
*Thank you to BookSirens for providing me with a copy of this book for which I'm leaving a review voluntarily*
July 18, 2020
This is the story of Joy and Arthur. Joy is an independent young woman with a talent for clothing design. Arthur is full of mystery but is confident and brash. Joy suspects he has a high rank but Arthur isn't telling. He enjoys the merry war of words between the two of them. As their relationship develops secrets and mysteries come to light. I really liked the characters in this book. I really liked the excitement and adventures. I was slightly disappointed by the ending. They get their HEA but not everything is completely resolved. I received a free ARC of this book but this review is my honest and voluntary review.
August 31, 2021
Beatrice and Benedict. Unexpected motives. Modern gothic-ish.
November 12, 2020
Breathtaking
This was truly a masterpiece. I adored Joy, Arthur, Pip, Eva...I could keep going. The rich detail and background of Joy and Arthur’s love story was spectacular. Not quite what I was expecting for the description. But so much better!!!!
This was truly a masterpiece. I adored Joy, Arthur, Pip, Eva...I could keep going. The rich detail and background of Joy and Arthur’s love story was spectacular. Not quite what I was expecting for the description. But so much better!!!!
August 25, 2020
First off thank you to Book Sirens for this copy of The House That Death Built by Mel Stone. This was an author I'd not heard of and a book I'd also not heard any talk about, so I was excited to jump in. I love to read new authors to me and discover new books that I wouldn't otherwise read if they weren't recommended. This one was a wonderful, suspense filled story that really peaked my interest from page one.
Arthur has had a tragic past and is on his way to settle affairs with his recently deceased wife's family when he tears his shirt and must stop at the local seamstresses shop for repairs. Joy who works there is taken aback at Arthur's brash demands and personality, but quickly repairs his shirt mainly to get him out of the shop. She even calls him a "disgusting beast", which he overhears. The spark is ignited and Arthur is determined to change Joy's opinion of him, as he sees something more in Joy that he'd like to get to know better. He's relentless in his pursuits.
After multiple attempts to get her to court him, Arthur goes straight to her father and family for their help in persuading Joy to change her mind and see him as a gentleman who has feelings and a man who's interest in her is true and loyal, he's besotted and desires to court her more than anything. She resists until she can no longer do so, his persistence pays off and she begins falling for his charm. He is very charming and Joy, who's not been one to throw herself into looking for a husband or even courtship because of personal issues that have affected her her entire life is soon falling in love with this man she really doesn't know that much about. They eventually marry and move to London.
Joy doesn't like London, she's a country girl and the smells and sounds of London do not agree with her at all. She knows Arthur's family estate is in a small town outside of London and when he continues to go there for extended visits she becomes curious. What is he doing there? Why is she never allowed to accompany him? Until after he leaves on one of his trips she takes it upon herself to follow him, so she packs up her lady's maid and they take off for the mysterious estate on the hill. Upon her arrival Arthur is surprised to say the least. He doesn't want her there, he's upset, but with her being pregnant now he decides he won't cause any undue stress upon her and allows her to stay. However, Joy notices his personality changes almost immediately. He's withdrawn, cautious with her to the point of not letting her out of his sight, he's searching for something, but won't talk to Joy about any of it. What's going on with this house? Is Joy really in danger or is Arthur overreacting or even unstable?
The book was a slow build to a wonderful story filled with suspense, intrigue and romance. I was on the edge of my seat. My mind kept bouncing back from the Arthur who was courting Joy and a great guy to the Arthur who was frantically trying to protect Joy from something at the "house", but what was it, or who was it? The characters were easy to get to know and grow attachments to. They never felt fake or forced. I enjoyed the way Stone worked her way up to the evil within the house and would hint at Arthur's past throughout the book, planting the seeds for the future of the story is how I took it and left me wanting to read faster to find out what these crumbs all meant. Brilliant way to make the reader read on! I also found it to be a very original story. I read close to 200 books a year and can't remember any of them that come close to this one in it's plot and narrative. I know it kept this avid reader wanting more and I'll be keeping my eyes open for more Mel Stone works. This is a great book for all fans of historical mystery, suspense or romance, or anyone who wants an original story with wonderful characters and well thought out writing. Happy Reading!
Arthur has had a tragic past and is on his way to settle affairs with his recently deceased wife's family when he tears his shirt and must stop at the local seamstresses shop for repairs. Joy who works there is taken aback at Arthur's brash demands and personality, but quickly repairs his shirt mainly to get him out of the shop. She even calls him a "disgusting beast", which he overhears. The spark is ignited and Arthur is determined to change Joy's opinion of him, as he sees something more in Joy that he'd like to get to know better. He's relentless in his pursuits.
After multiple attempts to get her to court him, Arthur goes straight to her father and family for their help in persuading Joy to change her mind and see him as a gentleman who has feelings and a man who's interest in her is true and loyal, he's besotted and desires to court her more than anything. She resists until she can no longer do so, his persistence pays off and she begins falling for his charm. He is very charming and Joy, who's not been one to throw herself into looking for a husband or even courtship because of personal issues that have affected her her entire life is soon falling in love with this man she really doesn't know that much about. They eventually marry and move to London.
Joy doesn't like London, she's a country girl and the smells and sounds of London do not agree with her at all. She knows Arthur's family estate is in a small town outside of London and when he continues to go there for extended visits she becomes curious. What is he doing there? Why is she never allowed to accompany him? Until after he leaves on one of his trips she takes it upon herself to follow him, so she packs up her lady's maid and they take off for the mysterious estate on the hill. Upon her arrival Arthur is surprised to say the least. He doesn't want her there, he's upset, but with her being pregnant now he decides he won't cause any undue stress upon her and allows her to stay. However, Joy notices his personality changes almost immediately. He's withdrawn, cautious with her to the point of not letting her out of his sight, he's searching for something, but won't talk to Joy about any of it. What's going on with this house? Is Joy really in danger or is Arthur overreacting or even unstable?
The book was a slow build to a wonderful story filled with suspense, intrigue and romance. I was on the edge of my seat. My mind kept bouncing back from the Arthur who was courting Joy and a great guy to the Arthur who was frantically trying to protect Joy from something at the "house", but what was it, or who was it? The characters were easy to get to know and grow attachments to. They never felt fake or forced. I enjoyed the way Stone worked her way up to the evil within the house and would hint at Arthur's past throughout the book, planting the seeds for the future of the story is how I took it and left me wanting to read faster to find out what these crumbs all meant. Brilliant way to make the reader read on! I also found it to be a very original story. I read close to 200 books a year and can't remember any of them that come close to this one in it's plot and narrative. I know it kept this avid reader wanting more and I'll be keeping my eyes open for more Mel Stone works. This is a great book for all fans of historical mystery, suspense or romance, or anyone who wants an original story with wonderful characters and well thought out writing. Happy Reading!
July 21, 2020
A historical romance in which a country mouse attracts a titled gentleman that morphs into a gothic mystery with a paranormal foundation, THE HOUSE THAT DEATH BUILT had me on a crazy roller coaster that I didn’t want to stop.
As with all great roller coasters that have a long slow climb to the first peak, the story was slow in the beginning. By Chapter 5, I’d crested the peak and headed downhills before twisting sideway into a turn and never looking back.
Author Mel Stone knows how to build a mystery as solid as a country manor house, laying one brick at a time until it all comes together in the end. Her characters are well-developed, and Stone does an excellent job unveiling them through interactions with others rather than us just reading their thoughts.
Joy Horton is unconventional for her time with a strong, independent streak and her family supports even as they don’t understand it. Arthur Marco is complex, a man who scowls even as he’s happy. He knows what he wants, and pursues Joy with determination that never devolves into a darker realm of taking away Joy’s choice.
I highly enjoyed what seems to be a first book for Stone, which I received for free in request for an honest review. I’ll be looking for more titles from her.
As with all great roller coasters that have a long slow climb to the first peak, the story was slow in the beginning. By Chapter 5, I’d crested the peak and headed downhills before twisting sideway into a turn and never looking back.
Author Mel Stone knows how to build a mystery as solid as a country manor house, laying one brick at a time until it all comes together in the end. Her characters are well-developed, and Stone does an excellent job unveiling them through interactions with others rather than us just reading their thoughts.
Joy Horton is unconventional for her time with a strong, independent streak and her family supports even as they don’t understand it. Arthur Marco is complex, a man who scowls even as he’s happy. He knows what he wants, and pursues Joy with determination that never devolves into a darker realm of taking away Joy’s choice.
I highly enjoyed what seems to be a first book for Stone, which I received for free in request for an honest review. I’ll be looking for more titles from her.
December 19, 2020
The house that death built was a very sweet story about two Bullheaded individuals comming together and falling in love.
And a murder mystery sort of?
Country girl Joy is the unexpected target of a rich city man's advances. Joy can't understand what he sees in her but Arthur is determined to make this work despite the constant bickering..
I loved Joy's spunk, independence and overall kind heart she was relatable and admirable. She was the perfect level-headed match for Arthur Marco, rash energetic a tad eccentric but equally kind.
I loved their romance, their growth as partners but I kinda hated everything else?
The mystery or "suspenseful" part of the story was so laughably bad and forgettable that by the end I was rolling my eyes at how non threatening the whole thing had been. The later half left rushed bespite nothing really happening. It wasn't bad just boring. If they had taken the attempted mystery and family curse arc out the story it would have gotten a higher score.
Stick around for the romance. Dont bother with the mystery
And a murder mystery sort of?
Country girl Joy is the unexpected target of a rich city man's advances. Joy can't understand what he sees in her but Arthur is determined to make this work despite the constant bickering..
I loved Joy's spunk, independence and overall kind heart she was relatable and admirable. She was the perfect level-headed match for Arthur Marco, rash energetic a tad eccentric but equally kind.
I loved their romance, their growth as partners but I kinda hated everything else?
The mystery or "suspenseful" part of the story was so laughably bad and forgettable that by the end I was rolling my eyes at how non threatening the whole thing had been. The later half left rushed bespite nothing really happening. It wasn't bad just boring. If they had taken the attempted mystery and family curse arc out the story it would have gotten a higher score.
Stick around for the romance. Dont bother with the mystery
August 8, 2020
I do not generally read thrillers as I often find myself become paranoid for a good while, however; due to my love and admiration for this author, I decided to give it a go. Mel had me giggling from page one, something I did not expect. It was a good amount of time before I had some spare time to sit down and read it and once I did, it grabbed me by the ears and pulled me in. This book is funny, sweet, sad, suspenseful, and a million other complicated emotions. Mel Stone is a literary genius and this book I would definitely recommend and read over and over!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2022
Wow. Wow. Wow. This book was spectacular. Nothing is as expected. Nothing goes the way you expect. It goes better but you don't know it does. Holy moly. Really really really good
March 20, 2023
This was light and charming and nothing at all what I expected 👍🏼
October 7, 2021
More 3.5 of 5. Fun, unexpected, a bit of a rushed ending but it does come together.
Read
July 1, 2021Audible listen. Bad idea. The narrator has a serious lisp and I could not deal with it. "Inappropriath" "patht" (past) "quieth" "outh" "didth" "prith" (prize) "feeth" "thoth" (that) "complimenth" "genth" "thath" "prethenth" "exthothted" "wondereth" (wondered) "pointh" "noth" (nod) Basically EVERYTHING that ends in T or D comes out as a th sound.
But also, "attock" for attack, "pot" for pat and "bock" for back, "scon" for scan, etc. But not just the usual British soft A sound, a really intense round O sound.
Her voice went right through me, and it wasn't improved even by increasing the playback speed. Now, if you're a better person than I am and aren't bothered by the idea of listening to someone with a serious speech impediment and a high, tinkling little girl voice for over 10 hours... You might like it. Me,though, it made me viscerally angry.
The story starts out with a whimper. Weathy but dyslexic country girl of 21 had accepted spinsterhood, but a duke sweeps in and, in about a day, has her parents begging for him to marry her. She's unsure. There's also her childhood friend who she's sort of into, but she feels like that's a lost cause, so she's considering him. They have a "slap kiss" sort of relationship, where they banter and bicker and he's kind of hot and cold and a bit mean to her. But she's intrigued... Turns out, he's a widower with a young daughter, which causes her to soften to him. So yeah, it's your basic soppy romance for the first half. Then we learn that there may have been something off about the death of his first wife.
Does it get more interesting? Not really. It is, suspicious death or not, fundamentally a soppy romance, and the soft, cute, little girl narration (not to mention the unrelenting lisp...) just emphasizes that. But the thing is, the romance is hard to get behind. Both characters aren't particularly likable or well rounded, and the evolution of their relationship doesn't make sense. Love at first sight stories strike me as lazy. They have nothing in common, know nothing about each other, have different socioeconomic backgrounds (which would have made a difference at that time) and their first meeting was him pulling a man-Karen at the sewing shop she worked at, ripping off his shirt in front of her and her co-workers in a tantrum because they weren't, what, fast enough? It was so improbable. And their relationship never did get more believable.
But ok. We are down to the final quarter, and the gothic part appears. An eerie mansion, a curse, but still nothing really happens until literally the last, like, 8th of the book where things take a truly bizarre turn. And suddenly it's over.
Hard pass on recommending this one, especially in audio form. But if you're into romance and like a liiiitle bit of weirdness, maybe give it a shot. Just not in audio.
But also, "attock" for attack, "pot" for pat and "bock" for back, "scon" for scan, etc. But not just the usual British soft A sound, a really intense round O sound.
Her voice went right through me, and it wasn't improved even by increasing the playback speed. Now, if you're a better person than I am and aren't bothered by the idea of listening to someone with a serious speech impediment and a high, tinkling little girl voice for over 10 hours... You might like it. Me,though, it made me viscerally angry.
The story starts out with a whimper. Weathy but dyslexic country girl of 21 had accepted spinsterhood, but a duke sweeps in and, in about a day, has her parents begging for him to marry her. She's unsure. There's also her childhood friend who she's sort of into, but she feels like that's a lost cause, so she's considering him. They have a "slap kiss" sort of relationship, where they banter and bicker and he's kind of hot and cold and a bit mean to her. But she's intrigued... Turns out, he's a widower with a young daughter, which causes her to soften to him. So yeah, it's your basic soppy romance for the first half. Then we learn that there may have been something off about the death of his first wife.
Does it get more interesting? Not really. It is, suspicious death or not, fundamentally a soppy romance, and the soft, cute, little girl narration (not to mention the unrelenting lisp...) just emphasizes that. But the thing is, the romance is hard to get behind. Both characters aren't particularly likable or well rounded, and the evolution of their relationship doesn't make sense. Love at first sight stories strike me as lazy. They have nothing in common, know nothing about each other, have different socioeconomic backgrounds (which would have made a difference at that time) and their first meeting was him pulling a man-Karen at the sewing shop she worked at, ripping off his shirt in front of her and her co-workers in a tantrum because they weren't, what, fast enough? It was so improbable. And their relationship never did get more believable.
But ok. We are down to the final quarter, and the gothic part appears. An eerie mansion, a curse, but still nothing really happens until literally the last, like, 8th of the book where things take a truly bizarre turn. And suddenly it's over.
Hard pass on recommending this one, especially in audio form. But if you're into romance and like a liiiitle bit of weirdness, maybe give it a shot. Just not in audio.
September 24, 2021
I was wrong in likening this to Pride and Prejudice with ghosts when I read the synopsis. The romance is much more similar to the main characters in Bridgerton than Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth and there are no ghosts. All that said, the book was a good read. The characters are well developed and the romance is totally believable. There is no spice and an awful lot of gas lighting, but the mystery is too enticing to stop reading. I was pleasantly surprised by this read and will likely recommend it to others.
August 24, 2020
First let me say that anyone who is able to not only write a book, but then also get it published, has done an incredible thing (especially if it’s their very first book) and it’s awesome that this author was able to do that. However, I unfortunately was not a fan of this novel, so much so that I was unable to finish it. Please know that my opinion is in the minority and it should be noted that most of the reviewers both on here and on Amazon have really loved it. I think I just struggled with what this book was; was it a romance? Was it gothic? Was it a mystery? Was it all of the above? It just seemed to focus on one thing at a time and the slow pacing made it difficult for me to stick around and figure out where the plot was heading, hence why I stopped reading about 35% of the way through. With that being said, I’d like to add that most reviewers said that it takes a little bit of time before the story picks up, but I just didn’t have the patience to wait around to find out what part of the book that was going to happen in (probably due to my ADHD, haha). The other issue I had with it was the dialogue. I read a lot, and I mean A LOT, of historical romance novels and the authors, mainly Americans, do a great job of making it seem like I’m actually listening to English people speaking to one another (or at least what I imagine English people would say). Although this book takes place in 1800s England, the characters all sound American (especially when they interact with each other), the flow of the dialogue itself was choppy, and, if it wasn’t for some of the characters mentioning “London” or various words associated with Victorian England sprinkled here and there, I would have completely forgot that this took place in England. Again, take my review with a grain of salt since I was unable to finish the book, but I would have just rather the book have a little more continuity, faster pacing, and better dialogue.
August 27, 2020
This was everything I didn't know I was looking for.
The story was fun, romantic, clever and the right amount of creepy near the ending.
Our heroine, Joy, is not conventional by any means. She refuses gloves, rarely wears a bonnet, and she knows how to defend herself. She has proven the latter several times throughout the story, which I absolutely loved.
Arthur Marco sounds like a wonderful man and he truly loves Joy Horton. He is a widower that doesn't believe he should be able to be so lucky with moving on. He courts her knowing that it may bring out family secrets that he thought hidden, and that it may end in heartbreak. He must have her, for she is true happiness and unlike anyone he has ever met. The more Joy gets to know Arthur, the more safe and in love she feels.
But secrets always find their way out. Dark as they may be. Joy has to discover the answers that will let her have her happy ending.
I was a bit confused at her reasoning sometimes and her decisions towards the end of the book, but I am very happy with the ending.
I will say that the twist was unexpected for me, and that I really loved the characters!
Absolutely recommend this, and I look forward to more works by this author.
✨Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review.✨
The story was fun, romantic, clever and the right amount of creepy near the ending.
Our heroine, Joy, is not conventional by any means. She refuses gloves, rarely wears a bonnet, and she knows how to defend herself. She has proven the latter several times throughout the story, which I absolutely loved.
Arthur Marco sounds like a wonderful man and he truly loves Joy Horton. He is a widower that doesn't believe he should be able to be so lucky with moving on. He courts her knowing that it may bring out family secrets that he thought hidden, and that it may end in heartbreak. He must have her, for she is true happiness and unlike anyone he has ever met. The more Joy gets to know Arthur, the more safe and in love she feels.
But secrets always find their way out. Dark as they may be. Joy has to discover the answers that will let her have her happy ending.
I was a bit confused at her reasoning sometimes and her decisions towards the end of the book, but I am very happy with the ending.
I will say that the twist was unexpected for me, and that I really loved the characters!
Absolutely recommend this, and I look forward to more works by this author.
✨Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review.✨
July 13, 2020
A young lady living a quiet yet content life in a small English community. The quintessential description of a gothic heroine. But there is nothing faint-hearted or missish about Joy. There is more of Elizabeth Bennett than Fanny Price about her. She likes her life as it is, thank you very much, and does not appreciate when a man comes into it and thoroughly discombobulates everything.
Mr. Marco has little to be happy about. His wife is dead and his family has more secrets than Jane Eyre's Mr. Rochester. But when a quick witted seamstress draws him out of his seemingly unending bout of brooding, he wants to keep her close. But what if the miss doesn't want him?
A glorious mix of mystery, manners, and wit, The House that Death Built reminded me why the gothic tales of Regency England are so fun to read. The writing flows well and the vocabulary is period appropriate. The plot had many inventive twists that kept me guessing (and reading past my bedtime.) I am looking forward to reading more by Mel Stone.
Recommended for fans of Nancy Campbell Allen, Northanger Abbey, and the Bronte Sisters.
Mr. Marco has little to be happy about. His wife is dead and his family has more secrets than Jane Eyre's Mr. Rochester. But when a quick witted seamstress draws him out of his seemingly unending bout of brooding, he wants to keep her close. But what if the miss doesn't want him?
A glorious mix of mystery, manners, and wit, The House that Death Built reminded me why the gothic tales of Regency England are so fun to read. The writing flows well and the vocabulary is period appropriate. The plot had many inventive twists that kept me guessing (and reading past my bedtime.) I am looking forward to reading more by Mel Stone.
Recommended for fans of Nancy Campbell Allen, Northanger Abbey, and the Bronte Sisters.
July 20, 2021
The title of Mel Stone’s historical romance is appropriately ominous, the tenor is much fuller. Joy and Arthur’s love story takes the reader from the perspective of a country Miss with a big family to a resolute spinster during her first real marriage to a outsider dealing with the whims of the ton, only to end up in a creepy gothic mansion by the sea where the happy newlyweds are plagued by family secrets and oppressed by a supernatural entity.
And with all of that packed into one book, none of it seems out of place or disjointed. The entire breadth of the Marco family story is evenly paced and well plotted. Stone uses every scene and chapter to its fullest potential to keep the story moving and the reader engaged. I haven’t had the pleasure of reading many romance novels, especially a stand-alone, as intricately written. This family could easily generate a series.
If I had to compare this book to another, I would say it’s a mashup of The Thornbird’s, Wuthering Heights, with a splash of The Monkey’s Paw, but that description doesn’t cover the delightfully amusing moments of dialogue. For that, I would need to mine deeper.
And with all of that packed into one book, none of it seems out of place or disjointed. The entire breadth of the Marco family story is evenly paced and well plotted. Stone uses every scene and chapter to its fullest potential to keep the story moving and the reader engaged. I haven’t had the pleasure of reading many romance novels, especially a stand-alone, as intricately written. This family could easily generate a series.
If I had to compare this book to another, I would say it’s a mashup of The Thornbird’s, Wuthering Heights, with a splash of The Monkey’s Paw, but that description doesn’t cover the delightfully amusing moments of dialogue. For that, I would need to mine deeper.
March 28, 2024
This was a well written story that starts out like a regular romance and then goes gothic. There were quite a few hair raising scenes and if I was the nail biting type, I'd have no nails left. This story took me on highs and lows throughout and had me thoroughly engrossed from beginning to end. I loved both of the main characters and side characters (most of them anyway). I enjoyed the banter back and forth and witty dialogue. Be forewarned that there are several deaths and one of them I was very sad about but the story does end up on a happy note.
Sexual: kissing, marital relations fade to black bedroom scenes - nothing scandalous or explicit.
Violence: gun violence, unexplained death, physical abuse, attempted murder (strangulation), fist fights, someone falls on a poker (survives). I am sensitive to violent content and I found the descriptions to be non-graphic.
Language: d***
Sexual: kissing, marital relations fade to black bedroom scenes - nothing scandalous or explicit.
Violence: gun violence, unexplained death, physical abuse, attempted murder (strangulation), fist fights, someone falls on a poker (survives). I am sensitive to violent content and I found the descriptions to be non-graphic.
Language: d***
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
If you are a fan of the movie, Crimson Peak, then you will absolutely adore this book. Same concept; it’s about a mysterious man who falls in love with a girl and as the girl is getting to know more about him, she discovers that he is hiding a lot of secrets about him and his house. There are doors that she cannot enter and things that he cannot discuss with her. These secrets test the boundaries and strength of their relationship. Overall a good read however I only gave it 4 stars because I felt like the relationship between Joy and Arthur was a bit rushed but I absolutely adored Arthur’s adoration towards her. It’s so refreshing to see a male love interest actually show loyalty, adoration, and affection towards his wife. Arthur saw Joy as his equal and it truly felt like the author wanted to portray a stable and genuine relationship. Ladies, get you a man like Arthur Marco, but learn everything about him before you decide to put a ring on it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2020
4.5/5 Stars
This was a great read for the first day of fall! This is definitely a hidden gem! We had death, mystery, romance all in one place. I enjoyed that this was a retelling of bluebeard and was rather enjoyable! Our main characters Joy and Arthur have such an interesting banter between each other that makes the book quite refreshing! Considering that this is a historical novel, i find things to be rather modern as well. Joy is a hard working seamstress that knows how to pick locks and beatup bullies, though she cannot read or write, she makes up for it by still being self sufficient!
This book had so many secrets! Some that were answered, and others that I still want answers too! But I thank Mel Stone from the bottom of my bookish heart for sending me this fantastic read to review for her! I loved it!
This was a great read for the first day of fall! This is definitely a hidden gem! We had death, mystery, romance all in one place. I enjoyed that this was a retelling of bluebeard and was rather enjoyable! Our main characters Joy and Arthur have such an interesting banter between each other that makes the book quite refreshing! Considering that this is a historical novel, i find things to be rather modern as well. Joy is a hard working seamstress that knows how to pick locks and beatup bullies, though she cannot read or write, she makes up for it by still being self sufficient!
This book had so many secrets! Some that were answered, and others that I still want answers too! But I thank Mel Stone from the bottom of my bookish heart for sending me this fantastic read to review for her! I loved it!
August 29, 2020
Received an ARC through Voracious readers!
This was a great read! Mystery and thriller and a bit of drama, just how I like it.
Joy who is an awesome seamstress, is courted by Arthur Marco who hides his identity from Joy for reasons. Even though they seem to bicker they actually compliment one another.
Joy has her reasons why she doesn't want to marry Arthur and it had me puzzled. Once the secret was out, I thought that doctors back then wouldn't really know her condition and what it's called today.
It seemed like Joy was living two lives, one a fairy tale and the other a secret one that no one was to know about.
Her and Arthur would get into their little quarrels and seem to make up. All except one big one!! That threw me for a loop.
Great read, page turner for sure.
This was a great read! Mystery and thriller and a bit of drama, just how I like it.
Joy who is an awesome seamstress, is courted by Arthur Marco who hides his identity from Joy for reasons. Even though they seem to bicker they actually compliment one another.
Joy has her reasons why she doesn't want to marry Arthur and it had me puzzled. Once the secret was out, I thought that doctors back then wouldn't really know her condition and what it's called today.
It seemed like Joy was living two lives, one a fairy tale and the other a secret one that no one was to know about.
Her and Arthur would get into their little quarrels and seem to make up. All except one big one!! That threw me for a loop.
Great read, page turner for sure.
July 20, 2020
I really enjoyed this blend of intrigue and historical romance. There was mystery and suspense, gothic paranormal elements too. I never quite knew what was going on with Arthur's character and the mystery surrounding him what delicious. It may have started out slow but it did pick up. It was well written and fun to read. Though there were times that I wanted to shake little Ms. Joy for her lack of belief in Arthur (especially with her being an artist of sorts), I did understand the ladies of the times. I just wish she had more faith. It all works out in the end, though
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2020
This was a really enjoyable and witty book to read and I spent a late night reading it because I didn’t and couldn’t put it down!
My favourite thing about this book was the wit and dialogue of the main characters. Even though it was meant to be a haunted house, therefore a horror, it definitely wasn’t as scary as I expected it to be.
I really enjoyed the characters in the book and the relationships between them. It was highly entertaining and I enjoyed the writing and I would most definitely recommend this to a fellow horror reader who I know would enjoy it just as much as I did!
A huge thank you to Booksirens for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
My favourite thing about this book was the wit and dialogue of the main characters. Even though it was meant to be a haunted house, therefore a horror, it definitely wasn’t as scary as I expected it to be.
I really enjoyed the characters in the book and the relationships between them. It was highly entertaining and I enjoyed the writing and I would most definitely recommend this to a fellow horror reader who I know would enjoy it just as much as I did!
A huge thank you to Booksirens for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2020
Absolutely addicting! A story of love, family secrets, and mystery. “The House That Death Build” is a book that will have turning pages until you’re done. Stone uses creativity and wit to bring her characters to life. As Joy navigates her feelings for Arthur, the reader feels like they are part of the love story. The best part was that I found myself unable to predict what was coming which is important to me when reading mystery books. I highly recommend reading this book if you enjoy gothic and suspenseful dramas.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC copy and am leaving these review voluntarily.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC copy and am leaving these review voluntarily.
July 19, 2020
Very well thought out and written. I feel like the thing that was hyped up throughout the book deserved a longer description/explanation. Apart from that, I have no other complaints. It's an excellent romance with a thriller side. Overall, I believe this is a very good book. One you'll definitely like if you liked the sample.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 6, 2021
Wow I'm speechless almost...
This book is soooo good, Its the first book I've read by this author not the last. It will take you on a magical journey for sure. Twist and turns. The love between Arthur and Joy was awesome. The secondary characters were great. The dog Pip was one of my favorites of course. The curse was one I've never heard of made the book all the more reason to read. I love a good curse. Lol. I highly recommend this book. Hope this author had more like it.
This book is soooo good, Its the first book I've read by this author not the last. It will take you on a magical journey for sure. Twist and turns. The love between Arthur and Joy was awesome. The secondary characters were great. The dog Pip was one of my favorites of course. The curse was one I've never heard of made the book all the more reason to read. I love a good curse. Lol. I highly recommend this book. Hope this author had more like it.
August 4, 2020
This is the 1st book I've read written by Mel Stone; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
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