The Secrets of Hartwood Hall: The mysterious and atmospheric gothic novel for fans of Stacey Halls

The debut novel by Lumsden is a mysterious and atmospheric gothic mystery that will appeal to fans of Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre, Stacey Halls, and Bridget Collins. The novel follows Margaret Lennox, who accepts a position as governess at Hartwood Hall, hoping to leave her past behind. However, she soon starts to feel something odd about her new home, and tensions rise between the servants. The local gossip surrounding Mrs. Eversham, Louis's widowed mother, adds to the suspense. As her own past threatens to catch up with her, Margaret must learn to trust her instincts before it's too late. The novel has received positive reviews, with critics praising its immersive atmosphere, great characterisation, and surprising twists.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2023
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The captivating debut novel that will transport you to the mysterious and atmospheric world of Gothic literature, reminiscent of the works of Charlotte Brontë, Stacey Halls, and Bridget Collins. Prepare to be immersed in a tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat, filled with suspense, mystery, and haunting atmosphere.

Margaret Lennox, a young and talented governess, finds herself accepting a position at Hartwood Hall, a secluded country house nestled in the heart of the English countryside. She hopes that this new opportunity will provide her with a fresh start, away from the painful memories of her past. However, as she settles into her new home, Margaret begins to sense that something is amiss. The house seems to hold a dark secret, and she can't shake off the feeling that she is being watched.

Strange figures lurk in the shadows, and tensions rise between the servants. The east wing of the house, which has been abandoned for years, sits eerily empty, giving off a sense of foreboding. The local gossip surrounding Mrs. Eversham, Louis's widowed mother, only adds to the mystery. Everyone in the village seems to have something to hide, and Margaret is determined to uncover the truth.

As Margaret delves deeper into the mystery, she discovers that her own past is intertwined with the secrets of Hartwood Hall. She must confront her demons and learn to trust her instincts before it is too late. The novel is a true love letter to Gothic fiction, filled with vivid descriptions, intricate characterizations, and a haunting sense of atmosphere.

"Lumsden's debut reminds us never to trust first appearances. Mesmerizing," said Sarah Penner, bestselling author of The Sanatorium. "A creepy, captivating gothic mystery that will keep you up all night."

"A full-blooded gothic mystery with bite, great characterisation, and heaps of atmosphere," praised Emma Stonex, bestselling author of The Lamplighters. "With echoes of Jane Eyre but with a heart of its own."

"A suspenseful and beautifully crafted novel filled with atmosphere, rich characters, and plenty of layers to keep a reader hooked right to the end," said Susan Stokes-Chapman, bestselling author of Pandora.

"A must-read for fans of gothic literature and anyone who loves a good mystery," said Woman's Weekly. "Lumsden's debut is a quintessential manor-home mystery that will leave you breathless."

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 223 x 140 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241556078