Hi all!
Today I will be sharing a spoiler-free post for the upcoming, new release horror novel: Terror of Breakspear Hall by F. R. Jameson. I was kindly sent this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. It will be published November 25th, 2020 and is book #6 in the Ghostly Shadow Series – but can be read completely separate to the others. As always, my thoughts/opinions will be completely truthful and unbiased. If you are interested in pre-ordering a copy, please click here. Without further ado, let’s get into it!
THE PLOT
Simone and her brother Robin are con-artists. They target the rich and corrupt, making them pay for their crimes. One night, after pursuing a mark to a casino, Simone is attacked on the street. In the aftermath, the two siblings find themselves transported to Breakspear Hall; a gothic mansion whose master has tried everything to keep visitors out.
Within the walls is a history of demonic rituals and human sacrifice. If the house welcomes you, it’s a home which can offer your greatest desires. However, this inheritance comes at a terrible price. One which will drain away your soul and leave you a broken husk. Worst of all, when you try to leave, it inflicts its most appalling punishment…
Trapped inside, Simone knows she has to save herself and her brother. But what can she possibly do against the unspeakable evil of Breakspear Hall?
THE CHARACTERS
In this story, we follow a very close brother/sister relationship that borders on co-dependency. It is mainly told from Simone’s perspective but through Robin, we learn how the pair fell into a Robin Hood style life of con-artistry; intent on robbing the rich to serve justice. I really enjoyed reading about the tragic event that led them to start-up their charity. When the two enter Breakspear Hall, their love and loyalty to one another forces them to make a heartbreaking decision. There are various side characters that make multiple appearances – both real and false. They are connected to the siblings in different, interesting ways but ultimately, nobody can truly penetrate the bond Simone and Robin share. The ending will leave you gasping!
THE WRITING STYLE
The writing style was fast-paced and punchy. The author is very good at getting straight to the point without dragging anything out. The house itself was the most arresting and captivating part of the story. I truly wished there had been more time spent there; delving deeper into the history and the torturous acts described. It could almost be a character in and of itself. We learn that it demands an heir and should the owner try to leave, terrifying consequences will occur. I would love to see a prequel or sequel that explores Breakspear Hall to the fullest extent. I also appreciated the sapphic representation.
My biggest issue with the story was the over-sexualisation of the female characters. There is a lot of emphasis placed on the appearance and desirability of the women. However, the ones that are described as less ‘conventionally attractive’ are deemed ‘fat cows’ and ‘sluts.’ As a woman myself, I don’t tend to enjoy seeing female characters represented that way. I felt those sections could’ve been written more tastefully.
STAR RATING
I gave this 2/5 stars.
I hope you enjoyed this honest, spoiler-free review. Feel free to order a copy for yourself from the link above.
Thank you for reading
Peace & Love xoxo
Disclaimer: This post contains a link to Amazon. I am not being paid or sponsored for this post/products – all my thoughts/opinions are my own
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