The Family Home
by L.H.Stacey
Nothing is as perfect as it seems.
Hattie Gilby hasn't returned to her family home since the devastating events that transpired there years ago. These events changed Hattie and continue to haunt her to this day. However, one phone call alters everything.
Now, Hattie is returning to confront her brothers, Adam and Luke, and hear her dying mother's last words.
Imogen Gilby hasn't spoken a word since the night she was beaten almost to death, and her husband was murdered. But now, she feels it's time to reveal the truth about what happened that fateful night and the secrets that nearly destroyed her family.
Hattie is still uncertain whether she wants to uncover the truth. It seems that someone close to them will go to great lengths to ensure these secrets remain hidden forever.
The author of The Fake Date and The House Guest presents another captivating, unputdownable thriller featuring realistic characters you love to love and hate, navigating a tense and twisty storyline.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I have explored most of this author's back catalogue and eagerly anticipate her subsequent work. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys the genre.
I want to thank Boldwood Books, author L.H. Stacey, and Rachel's Random Resources for providing a copy to read and review.

Book Review: The Family Home by L.H. Stacey

L.H. Stacey delivers another bone-chilling psychological thriller with The Family Home, a suspenseful tale that grips you from the first page and doesn’t let go. A perfect blend of dark family secrets, psychological tension, and shocking twists, this novel is a must-read for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, The Family Home is it.

The story follows Hattie Gilby, who has not stepped foot in her family home for years due to the traumatic events that shattered her life and her family. But when she receives a call informing her of her mother’s impending death, Hattie is forced to return to face the ghosts of her past. Her mother, Imogen, has been mute since the night she was violently attacked, and her husband was murdered. Now, in her final days, Imogen is ready to reveal the truth behind that fateful night—secrets that have been buried for years. But someone close to the Gilby family will do anything to keep those secrets hidden, and Hattie’s return stirs up more than just painful memories.

Stacey expertly crafts a dark, claustrophobic atmosphere that draws readers into the tense family dynamics and the unraveling mystery. The pacing is relentless, keeping you hooked as Hattie navigates her fractured relationships with her brothers, Adam and Luke, and the disturbing revelations that begin to surface. The plot is filled with twists and turns that will leave you questioning who you can trust, and the suspense only intensifies as the truth draws nearer.

What makes The Family Home particularly gripping is Stacey’s ability to create multi-dimensional characters. Hattie, in particular, is a character you can’t help but empathize with—her pain and confusion feel real and raw, and her struggle to confront the past is both heartbreaking and relatable. The family secrets are slowly revealed, each one more shocking than the last, and the emotional weight of the story builds to an explosive, unexpected conclusion that you won’t see coming.

L.H. Stacey’s writing is vivid and immersive. She does an exceptional job of setting the scene, and her descriptive prose pulls you into the Gilby family’s complex world. The tension is palpable, and the book is brimming with emotions that range from guilt and regret to fear and betrayal. The psychological aspects are intricately woven into the plot, and the story is as much about the characters’ emotional journeys as it is about solving the central mystery.

The Family Home is a tense, dark, and dramatic thriller that will have you questioning everything. With its riveting plot, compelling characters, and shocking ending, this book is a page-turner that will keep you up all night. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that offer both emotional depth and spine-tingling suspense, this is the book for you.

Rating: 5/5

The Family Home is a stunningly crafted psychological thriller that combines family drama with dark, twisted secrets and an unpredictable ending. L.H. Stacey proves once again that she is a master at creating suspense and keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. Highly recommended!

A great read, fast paced with a twist at the end that I didn't see coming. Hard to put down once I started.

I was hooked from the beginning with this book. LH Stacey did an epic job with keeping me on my toes. This was my first time read a book by this author, and I was not disappointed. It was a very descriptive roller coaster that had me feeling a whole different range of emotions. The suspense was great and the twists....wow. I can't wait to read more from this author. I definitely recommend this book to the thriller/mystery readers.

Thank you Net Galley ARC, Boldwood Books, and LH Stacey.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for this earc! This was one Captivating suspense novel! I’m excited to look into more of the authors work in the future.

This one started off really well. But then I just couldnt connect to the characters. The ending was rushed and I felt frustrated. I also found it to be predictable .

L H Stacey has penned a chilling, terrifying and unpredictable thriller with her latest novel, The Family Home.

One horrible night had changed Hattie Gilby’s life forever. With her whole world upended, Hattie had made a promise never to return to the family home ever again. But she’s had to go back on her promise after receiving a phone call which leaves her with no other choice but to return to the place where everything had changed for her. Coming face to face with her two brothers is hard enough, but seeing her mother Imogen again brings with it a whole host of feelings Hattie isn’t sure she is prepared for.

Imogen hasn’t spoken a single word since that night. That night where she had been horribly beaten and her husband had been murdered in cold blood. Long-buried secrets that have been hidden for so long are about to come out into the light. But Hattie isn’t sure she is ready to hear the truth. Worse, there is someone close to her prepared to do whatever it takes to make sure that Hattie is precluded from finding out what really happened that fateful night all those years ago…

A shocking tale of lies, secrets and murder, The Family Home is an addictive and engrossing thriller by L H Stacey that will keep readers up way past their bedtime. L H Stacey certainly knows how to shred her readers’ nerves and have them on a knife’s edge desperate to find out what is going to happen next and with The Family Home she has outdone herself by writing a creepy and unsettling chiller that will give them nightmares.

I found that this was an easy read with a gripping plot line, however I felt that I was left wanting more. To know more about the past, about lousia and Mary.

But overall a nice quick read

It's nice to just read a good psychological thriller. It might not keep you guessing or try twist after twist becuase you might just guess them along the way. But that doesnt take from the book telling. And thsre is still soooo much i never cpuld have guessed.The thrill from books like this one is just from good suspension in the writing. Just from good writinf full stop. I was hooked all the way through. And I desperately needed to know the answers just as the children did.
I felt so much for this daughter who had her whole life turned upside down. Who had fled,and all that comes with that. And then now, had to come back to fave too many demons that one woman should have to. This is all at the same time as still being damaged from the past and now having more possible pain thrown her way. Her choices feel impossible.
I love love loved this book. I can't exactly say why. It was just brilliant. And whether it was just me having a particular liking for this author style I don't know. But who cares. I am only more glad because I've now got a new author to go read more from!
This had so much depth,family and emotions mixed in
Fab.

**The Family Home** by L.H. Stacey is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, secrets, and betrayal. With a sharp focus on emotional tension and the darker sides of familial relationships, Stacey crafts a narrative that keeps readers on edge, blending mystery with deep psychological insight. The novel explores how deeply buried secrets can disrupt the seemingly perfect facade of a family, ultimately unearthing unsettling truths.

### Plot Overview:
The novel centers on **Emma**, a woman who has recently inherited her childhood home, a grand estate that holds many memories of her complicated upbringing. She returns to the house with her family—her husband, **Daniel**, and their young daughter—hoping for a fresh start and a chance to reconnect with her past. However, the house holds more than just memories. As Emma and her family settle in, unsettling things begin to happen. Strange occurrences make her question her own perceptions, and the deeper she digs into the history of the home, the more secrets she uncovers about her family’s past.

As Emma tries to make sense of these strange events, she begins to unravel long-held family secrets that suggest the house itself is tied to much darker events. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, mainly Emma’s, but also those of other key characters, and the narrative becomes a slow burn of suspense, building towards a dramatic revelation. Each character’s backstory contributes to the overall sense of dread and tension as Emma uncovers the hidden truths that could tear her family apart.

### Character Development:
L.H. Stacey excels at creating multidimensional characters, and Emma, the protagonist, is both relatable and complex. She is a woman caught between her desire to heal old wounds and her fear of confronting the darkness in her family’s history. Throughout the novel, Emma undergoes significant emotional and psychological growth as she begins to piece together the fragmented truths about her family. Her internal conflict—between loyalty to her family and the need for personal liberation—is portrayed with emotional depth.

**Daniel**, Emma’s husband, adds another layer of tension to the story. His skepticism about the events happening around them, combined with his own personal issues, complicates Emma’s journey. The relationship between Emma and Daniel is tested as Emma’s suspicions grow, and their differing responses to the house’s mysteries create friction and unease.

The other characters, including Emma’s parents and some extended family members, each bring their own perspectives and contribute to the unraveling mystery. These secondary characters are not merely plot devices but are well-developed, and each plays a role in adding layers to the central mystery.

### Writing Style:
L.H. Stacey’s writing is atmospheric and evocative. The author has a talent for creating tension through subtle, unsettling details, whether it’s a mysterious noise in the night or a seemingly innocent comment that takes on a sinister tone. The prose is smooth, with a clear focus on building suspense while maintaining emotional depth.

Stacey’s pacing is one of the novel’s strengths. While the plot is slow-burning, it never feels tedious. Instead, the gradual build-up creates a palpable sense of dread. The chapters are filled with suspenseful moments that push the reader to keep turning the pages, eager to learn more about the dark secrets lurking in the family’s past.

The shifting perspectives also allow the reader to see different aspects of the mystery, enhancing the story’s depth. The author switches between Emma’s first-person narration and third-person sections from the perspective of other key characters, which adds richness and complexity to the narrative. The alternating viewpoints keep the reader engaged, and the suspense remains high throughout.

### Themes:
1. **Family Secrets**: The heart of *The Family Home* lies in the exploration of family secrets—how they fester, how they can destroy relationships, and how they shape the lives of the people involved. Emma’s return to her childhood home forces her to confront the lies her family has kept hidden for years. As the truth begins to surface, the novel examines how deeply secrets can damage a family, especially when trust is broken.

2. **Perception vs. Reality**: Another central theme is the unreliable nature of perception. Emma’s own sanity and understanding of what’s happening around her are questioned throughout the novel, and the reader is kept guessing about what is real and what is imagined. This theme of blurred lines between perception and reality is a hallmark of psychological thrillers and is handled effectively by Stacey.

3. **The Weight of the Past**: The novel deals with the idea that the past is never truly gone—it lingers, influencing present-day decisions and relationships. Emma’s attempt to rebuild her life is constantly haunted by her childhood experiences and the history of the house. The past has a way of resurfacing, no matter how hard one tries to bury it.

4. **Trust and Betrayal**: As the story progresses, the theme of trust—and its erosion—becomes more pronounced. Emma’s journey is filled with emotional betrayal, not only from others but also from herself. The revelation of long-hidden family secrets forces her to question everything she thought she knew about her family and her own life.

### Emotional Impact:
*The Family Home* is a tense and emotionally charged read. As the novel unravels, it brings to light uncomfortable truths, and the emotional stakes for the characters continue to rise. The tension between Emma and her husband, as well as Emma’s internal struggle with the past, creates a layered and emotional narrative.

The story’s slow reveal of secrets ensures that the emotional payoff is both satisfying and heartbreaking. Readers will likely find themselves reflecting on their own family dynamics and the impact of secrets, making the book resonate long after the final page is turned. Emma’s emotional journey—of rediscovering her strength and her sense of identity in the face of betrayal—adds depth to the story and gives the book a heartfelt undercurrent amid the thriller elements.

### Final Thoughts:
*The Family Home* by L.H. Stacey is a deeply atmospheric and gripping psychological thriller that skillfully combines suspense with emotional depth. With its well-developed characters, slow-burning tension, and exploration of complex family dynamics, the novel keeps the reader hooked until the very end.

Stacey’s writing style and pacing make the book a compelling read for fans of domestic thrillers and psychological suspense. If you enjoy stories about family secrets, emotional turmoil, and a slow unraveling of mystery, *The Family Home* is definitely worth picking up.

For readers who appreciate psychological thrillers with a strong emotional core and an exploration of the impact of family history, *The Family Home* is a captivating and satisfying read. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones, and the painful consequences of keeping the truth buried.

The family home was a good book. The story follows Hattie who has stayed away from her family since a fateful night that her mom stopped talking and her father was killed. The book was fast paced and kept me engaged. Would definitely recommend.

Thank you Netgalley, Boldwood Books and L H Stacey for the eArc of The Family Home.

The Family Home is a well paced, psychological thriller surrounding a tragic accident that happened to Hattie 3 years previously. Having putting distance between her and her family home. Hattie must return to face what happened. This domestic thriller is told on a multiple POV throughout the book. Each character has their own individual voice which made it easier to follow. There is some great foreshadowing and twists which leads to a satisfying ending.

This is the first of L H Stacey's books and having enjoyed this one, Ill be looking for more of her work.


4 stars

That Lake. This house. His friends. They all know what happened to my boy. I know they do. And you… you have to help me find the truth.

Ten years ago, Lizzie was deeply in love with Thomas Kirkwood and believed they had a future together. But everything changed on the night of their graduation. Amidst a haze of alcohol and drugs, Thomas’s lifeless body was found floating in the Kirkwood family lake. That tragedy shattered Lizzie’s world, and she vowed never to set foot at Kirkwood Manor again.

Now, a decade later, Lizzie—now preferring to go by Elizabeth—receives an unexpected invitation. Ada, Thomas’s grieving mother, is hosting a memorial weekend at Kirkwood Manor, bringing together all of Thomas’s old friends who attended the fateful party. But this is no ordinary gathering; it’s a carefully orchestrated reunion to uncover the truth about Thomas’s death. Ada is determined to catch the killer, and Elizabeth fears she might be at the top of Ada’s list.

This gripping novel combines the allure of a locked-room mystery with the chilling atmosphere of a psychological thriller. The tension is palpable as the narrative unfolds, drawing readers into the secrets and lies that surround Kirkwood Manor. The characters are layered with complex motivations, and the eerie backdrop of the lake serves as a haunting reminder of past events.

The pacing is spot-on, with each chapter unravelling new clues and keeping the reader guessing until the very end. The author expertly weaves past and present, exploring themes of guilt, grief, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets.

If you enjoy suspenseful, character-driven mysteries with a dark and atmospheric setting, That Lake will not disappoint. With its twist-filled plot and captivating narrative, this is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Highly recommended!

3.5/5.

Read more at The Secret Book Review.

I really enjoyed this book and I was able to keep track of the multiple points of view, I read this book quite quickly and I look forward to more books by this author.

I’ve read a number of books by L. H. Stacey, so I have come to expect a story that strips away the civilised facade of family life that most people present to the world and takes a peek at the less shiny truth that lies behind. Despite this prior knowledge, this book took me to some unexpectedly dark places.

The book starts with a horrifying event that befell the Gilby family nine years ago in their family home, and we find out that it has had a very negative effect on the daughter of the family, Hattie, who has not been back to the house since. Almost estranged from her brothers and only occasionally visited her hospitalised mother, who has never been the same since that night, a crisis finally brings Hattie back to face her demons – and what demons they turn out to be.

Often is psychological thrillers, there are one or two suspicious characters that you can’t work out whether to trust or not. In this book, everyone is under suspicion. I can’t remember ever reading a book where the characters so threw me off course throughout, so I was never sure who I could trust and who I couldn’t, right from the very first page. Even one person who I thought was going to be the one person I could rely on for an objective view of the situation ended up with a perspective that was twisted so I wasn’t sure she was really objective. Everyone in this book has things to hide or grapple with.

It has become a bit of a standing joke that this type of book has a ‘twist you won’t see coming,’ which always flags up the twist and you see it a mile off. This book does not boast that, but I can honestly say that there were a number of things in the plot that really surprised and shocked me and were really unexpected. This book truly kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end and I raced through it in a short space of time because I needed to know what was going to happen, even though by the end I was deeply disturbed by the story. Even now, several days later, thinking about it is unsettling. That is a powerful testament to the writer.

If you like you domestic thrillers on the darker side, this one is one for you. A great example of the genre, but I do wonder if its why I have had trouble sleeping the last few days!

I usually enjoy a book about people going back home and wondering what they're going to find. The beginning chapters of this book really hooked me, with Imogen and what happened to her and her husband.

However, I soon felt lost about what was happening.

I lost interest and got very confused around halfway through. I felt that the characters weren't well developed and the writing was far too descriptive. Descriptive writing would usually make me want to continue, but it took me out of the story. There were not many visuals, so it was hard to stay immersed in it.

The plot went back-and-forth between the present moment and nine years before. The "nine years before" parts are all from Hattie's point of view. I wanted to get to know the characters more, but I found that I just didn't (not even Hattie).

I think the problem is that, for me, they aren't very well created right from the beginning. I wanted to feel for them and root for them but I couldn't.

This is my first book by L.H. Stacey, and I wanted to really enjoy it, but it just wasn't for me. The parts I did understand were predictable (except the beginning, which was gripping).

I really like thrillers and this was not a thriller as such. It was more like a mystery. Even then, I didn't find it mysterious and it was more confusing than anything.

Book 1 for Thankfully Reading 2024

2 stars

Thanks to Boldwood Books and L.H. Stacey for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 likes

This was my first LH Stacey book but definitely not my last. Exploring families, their homes and money. Fantastic characters that kept me flipping pages long into the night. Dark and disturbing with killer reveals. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thank you NetGalley, LH Stacey and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Another enjoyable popcorn thriller and nail biter. Best one by the author yet imo. With dual time line and multiple POVs which will leave you guessing.

Prior to now I have read several books from this author and have found them all to be enjoyable, but The Family Home is definitely my favourite to date.

It's a fast paced read that's told across dual timeline and narrated from multiple POV. The twists and turns come thick and fast as the past is unveiled; dark secrets are revealed and family lies exposed.

Whilst I found I couldn't form any emotional attachments to the characters, this didn't distract from my enjoyment the book.

I found it a powerful story of loyalty and betrayal that had me hooked immediately, the suspense was killing me, I needed answers and I needed them now!

The Family Home is an interesting thriller. It was engaging right away and moved at a pace that kept me wanting to read. Even though there were some parts that I figured out quickly there were also twists that I did not see coming.

There were some grammar issues that I found distracting but other than that I enjoyed this and look forward to reading other things by this author.