Genre: Gothic Horror / Haunted House Fiction
Vibe: Flickering candlelight, creaky floorboards, something watching from the woods
“People whisper about Ashburn House. They say the old widow went mad. They say it’s haunted. They say it’s better left alone… but Adrienne didn’t have a choice.”
Review:
This was my first experience with Darcy Coates, and let me just say, she knows how to keep a reader checking over their shoulder.
The writing is atmospheric in the best way. Every hallway, flickering bulb, and unexpected knock has weight. Adrienne, the main character, finds herself inheriting the crumbling Ashburn House, and from the moment she steps inside, you know something’s wrong. But Coates doesn’t throw all the scares at you at once—this is a slow burn. A long shadow. A whisper that gets louder with every page.
What I appreciated most was how immersive the story is. You don’t just read about the creaks and chills—you feel them. The tension builds beautifully, and just when you think you’ve caught your breath, it twists again. There’s grief here. Isolation. Fear. But also survival. The kind of quiet, persistent resilience that feels real.
Final Thoughts:
If you love gothic horror that leans into suspense and mood instead of jump scares, this one belongs on your nightstand. It’s eerie without being gory, unsettling without being overwhelming, and absolutely perfect for a stormy night read.
Would I read more from this author? Already lining up another title
🕸️ Explore More from the Author:
👻 Visit Darcy Coates’ Website
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