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The Whistling
Alone in the world, Elspeth Swansome has taken the position of nanny to a family on the remote Scottish island of Skelthsea. Her charge, Mary, is a troubled child. Distracted and secretive, she hasn't uttered a word since the sudden death of her twin, William—just days after their former nanny disappeared.
With Mary defiantly silent, Elspeth turns to the islanders. But no one will speak of what happened to William. Just as no one can explain the hypnotic lullabies sung in empty corridors. Nor the strange dolls that appear in abandoned rooms.
Nor the faint whistling that comes in the night...
As winter draws in and passage to the mainland becomes impossible, Elspeth finds herself trapped.
But is this house haunted by the ghosts of the past?
OR THE SECRETS OF THE LIVING..?
Chilling, twisty and emotionally gripping, The Whistling is an atmospheric page-turner with shades of the classics, yet a unique character of its own. Perfect for fans of Susan Hill and Laura Purcell.
With Mary defiantly silent, Elspeth turns to the islanders. But no one will speak of what happened to William. Just as no one can explain the hypnotic lullabies sung in empty corridors. Nor the strange dolls that appear in abandoned rooms.
Nor the faint whistling that comes in the night...
As winter draws in and passage to the mainland becomes impossible, Elspeth finds herself trapped.
But is this house haunted by the ghosts of the past?
OR THE SECRETS OF THE LIVING..?
Chilling, twisty and emotionally gripping, The Whistling is an atmospheric page-turner with shades of the classics, yet a unique character of its own. Perfect for fans of Susan Hill and Laura Purcell.
378 pages, Hardcover
First published October 14, 2021
446 people are currently reading
16657 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Netley
3 books219 followersRebecca Netley grew up as part of an eccentric family in a house full of books and music and these things have fed her passions. Family and writing remain at the heart of Rebecca’s life. She lives in the UK with her husband, sons and an over-enthusiastic dog, who gives her writing tips.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,178 reviews
September 20, 2021
4+ star
It’s 1860 and Elspeth Swansome is on board a boat taking her to the Scottish island of Skelthsea as she escapes her past in Edinburgh. She’s to take up a position as nanny to nine year old Mary who is cared for by her aunt Violet Gillies. Mary is mute with grief, a deeply troubled child after tragedy enters her life. Elspeth is determined to get to the bottom of what so disturbs her charge especially when a number of inexplicable things occur including a whistling sound heard in the corridors of Iskar at night.
If you’re looking for a ghostly gothic tale to read as winter draws nigh then look no further than this. It’s a beautifully written novel that is true to the nineteenth century gothic novel both in style and format. There’s a haunting dream like quality that pervades the writing which is very powerful. There are some wonderful descriptions especially of Iskar the island home of Violet, over which hangs an air of solitude and sadness and evoking an atmosphere all of its own. As strange events increase in the household this is matched by the encroaching chill of the winter with all it’s unpredictable weather which serves to intensify the sense of foreboding. The island and its inhabitants add further to the tension and creepiness which starts with prickles of unease but grows into fear and a pervasive menace which Elspeth as the narrator clearly conveys. Elspeth is maybe too curious at times seemingly drawn in as a moth to a flame but her growing concern and love for Mary brings out a protective instinct. Icy fear, ghostly spectral hints, spooky scenes, strange behaviour all send shivers down the spine. It builds to a dramatic conclusion with a surprising outcome I don’t see coming!
Overall, this is an evocative, eerie, disquieting novel and perfect for fans of authors such as Laura Purcell. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Penguin Michael Joseph for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
It’s 1860 and Elspeth Swansome is on board a boat taking her to the Scottish island of Skelthsea as she escapes her past in Edinburgh. She’s to take up a position as nanny to nine year old Mary who is cared for by her aunt Violet Gillies. Mary is mute with grief, a deeply troubled child after tragedy enters her life. Elspeth is determined to get to the bottom of what so disturbs her charge especially when a number of inexplicable things occur including a whistling sound heard in the corridors of Iskar at night.
If you’re looking for a ghostly gothic tale to read as winter draws nigh then look no further than this. It’s a beautifully written novel that is true to the nineteenth century gothic novel both in style and format. There’s a haunting dream like quality that pervades the writing which is very powerful. There are some wonderful descriptions especially of Iskar the island home of Violet, over which hangs an air of solitude and sadness and evoking an atmosphere all of its own. As strange events increase in the household this is matched by the encroaching chill of the winter with all it’s unpredictable weather which serves to intensify the sense of foreboding. The island and its inhabitants add further to the tension and creepiness which starts with prickles of unease but grows into fear and a pervasive menace which Elspeth as the narrator clearly conveys. Elspeth is maybe too curious at times seemingly drawn in as a moth to a flame but her growing concern and love for Mary brings out a protective instinct. Icy fear, ghostly spectral hints, spooky scenes, strange behaviour all send shivers down the spine. It builds to a dramatic conclusion with a surprising outcome I don’t see coming!
Overall, this is an evocative, eerie, disquieting novel and perfect for fans of authors such as Laura Purcell. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Penguin Michael Joseph for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
October 31, 2021
The setting of Iskar is mysterious, wild, and untamed with a range of deeply drawn characters that connect the past and the present. The writing is creepy but elegant and darkly ominous, even the weather has its role in creating the perfect haunting atmosphere whilst the author does an amazing job in telling an evil tale that is accretive, extending, and unyielding.
The year is 1860. Elspeth, now without any family of her own after the death of both her parents and sister Clara, she relocates to the remote island of Skethsea to take up a new position as nanny of a troubled child named Mary. Needless to say, all is not well at Iskar, Mary has refused to speak since the sudden death of her brother, William, most of the house remains uninhabited and unused, and the residents are mysterious and unfriendly.
Slowly the island, the house and its inhabitants begin to give up their secrets, William, and the former nanny who is now missing are labelled dangerous and evil. Meanwhile the regular ghostly and unexplained events seek to ratch up an even deeper sense of foreboding, and “beyond the sounds of the island, another sound made itself heard: the faintest of whistles”
This is another perfect dose of spook-ology. The author delivers a wonderfully menacing story whilst maintaining the suspense throughout as she unspools the tales of bygone days. The plot, ambiance, writing, and pace was excellent, but the characterisation was fabulous and made the book for me. The author created a sense of vulnerability in all the characters whilst at the same time making them capable of menace. So, it was difficult to predict the outcome which I loved. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and perfect to end my spooky challenge.
The year is 1860. Elspeth, now without any family of her own after the death of both her parents and sister Clara, she relocates to the remote island of Skethsea to take up a new position as nanny of a troubled child named Mary. Needless to say, all is not well at Iskar, Mary has refused to speak since the sudden death of her brother, William, most of the house remains uninhabited and unused, and the residents are mysterious and unfriendly.
Slowly the island, the house and its inhabitants begin to give up their secrets, William, and the former nanny who is now missing are labelled dangerous and evil. Meanwhile the regular ghostly and unexplained events seek to ratch up an even deeper sense of foreboding, and “beyond the sounds of the island, another sound made itself heard: the faintest of whistles”
This is another perfect dose of spook-ology. The author delivers a wonderfully menacing story whilst maintaining the suspense throughout as she unspools the tales of bygone days. The plot, ambiance, writing, and pace was excellent, but the characterisation was fabulous and made the book for me. The author created a sense of vulnerability in all the characters whilst at the same time making them capable of menace. So, it was difficult to predict the outcome which I loved. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and perfect to end my spooky challenge.
November 2, 2021
A menacing, spooky story with enough rope to guide the reader through the past and the present.
With the past coming to light gradually this lead me to wonder how this ties in up to date, no fear of it wandering off at all. This historical events of the past come uniquely up to haunt us.
The writing was exquisite, the pace very satisfying for me as a reader.
It was spooky and chilling giving me goosebumps in places like someone on the Misty hills wondering whose out there.
The character (Nanny) of past who vanished and the Nanny of present day was awesomely done.
I loved everything about this book.
With the past coming to light gradually this lead me to wonder how this ties in up to date, no fear of it wandering off at all. This historical events of the past come uniquely up to haunt us.
The writing was exquisite, the pace very satisfying for me as a reader.
It was spooky and chilling giving me goosebumps in places like someone on the Misty hills wondering whose out there.
The character (Nanny) of past who vanished and the Nanny of present day was awesomely done.
I loved everything about this book.
October 31, 2023
What a perfect Gothic book for the fall season! Seeping in atmosphere, chills, tension and dread, The Whistling will haunt me for days to come! It’s eerie, gripping, well thought out, and shocking.
On the remote Scottish island of Skelthsea, Mary has stopped speaking after the death of her twin brother, William. Mary now lives with her aunt, Violet Gillies, and the staff who take care of their needs. Prior to her brother William's death, their beloved Nanny left without warning. By all accounts she was well liked and enjoyed her job, so why did she leave so abruptly?
Elspeth Swansome, who recently suffered the loss of her sister, is the new Nanny charged with Mary's care. She takes Mary under her wing and tries her best to get Mary to speak. As the days go on, Elspeth notices and experience strange things.
I loved the isolation and atmosphere in this book. Both the old family mansion and the island itself were isolated and oozed with atmosphere. I loved the vivid descriptions that had me feeling as if I was right there as a silent observer in the characters’ lives.
Not only was the mansion dark and dreary, but it also had a creepy vibe to it as well. Elspeth can hear a faint lullaby humming outside her door. Plus, things are showing up in her room and as she does some exploring, she finds more troubling things.
I enjoyed the mystery of why the previous Nanny left the secrets that are swirling throughout the book, the feeling of dread, and the mounting tension. Questions not only plagued Elspeth, but I had questions as well. Was the home haunted? Is Witchcraft to blame? Does someone know the truth? Why all the secrets?
There were a few twists and turns along the way, and I did not see the reveal coming at all! That was a shocker!
Well written, atmospheric, Gothic, dark and spooky.
*Traveling Witches Buddy read with Brenda.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
On the remote Scottish island of Skelthsea, Mary has stopped speaking after the death of her twin brother, William. Mary now lives with her aunt, Violet Gillies, and the staff who take care of their needs. Prior to her brother William's death, their beloved Nanny left without warning. By all accounts she was well liked and enjoyed her job, so why did she leave so abruptly?
Elspeth Swansome, who recently suffered the loss of her sister, is the new Nanny charged with Mary's care. She takes Mary under her wing and tries her best to get Mary to speak. As the days go on, Elspeth notices and experience strange things.
I loved the isolation and atmosphere in this book. Both the old family mansion and the island itself were isolated and oozed with atmosphere. I loved the vivid descriptions that had me feeling as if I was right there as a silent observer in the characters’ lives.
Not only was the mansion dark and dreary, but it also had a creepy vibe to it as well. Elspeth can hear a faint lullaby humming outside her door. Plus, things are showing up in her room and as she does some exploring, she finds more troubling things.
I enjoyed the mystery of why the previous Nanny left the secrets that are swirling throughout the book, the feeling of dread, and the mounting tension. Questions not only plagued Elspeth, but I had questions as well. Was the home haunted? Is Witchcraft to blame? Does someone know the truth? Why all the secrets?
There were a few twists and turns along the way, and I did not see the reveal coming at all! That was a shocker!
Well written, atmospheric, Gothic, dark and spooky.
*Traveling Witches Buddy read with Brenda.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
November 20, 2023
3.5 stars
short review for busy readers: gothic haunted house story set on a windswept Scottish island in the late 19th century. Suffers from some first novel problems. Atmosphere and setting are wonderfully done and the ghostly factor is fairly high. Pretty good for seasonal creeps, but won't satisfy genre aficionados very well.
In detail:
This is a good first novel and it reads like it.
Parts are really well done which show off the strong writing talent that's there, but that talent is unfortunately not yet well developed enough to achieve the lofty ambitions of the author.
First of all, the narrative voice ricochets between a YA-esque overuse of "I" - I did this, I did that - and seeming desire to copy the masterful gothic style of bygone eras, such as in Rebecca with dreamy statements like "I knew" and "I felt," which shows the author doesn't yet have a good enough grasp of the intricacies of 1st person narration. I found myself playing editor and mentally pulling out the red pen far too often.
The second problem point is the repetition.
Our narrator, Miss Swansome, repeats to us her basic emotional/motivational state at almost every turn. Be that she misses her dead sister, or she only wants to help the little girl she cares for, or that she's scared but determined. It's rather a lot of go-nowhere wheel-spinning which gives the impression that the author had only that handful worked out about the character and didn't know how to, or felt she needed to, broaden Miss Swansome's emotional range.
The third problem was the reveal and ending. No spoilers, but it's about as awkward, left-field, absurd of a twist as you can imagine.
This is not to say that the novel isn't readable or enjoyable or falls flat. Only that for her first novel, Ms Netley set the bar very, very high for herself. She clearly has a knack for settings and ghoulish atmosphere, and her characters are well chosen for the story she's telling.
In fact, it was the middle section, a place where many authors falter or lose momentum, which shines the brightest. But there is plenty of room for growth.
Hopefully, her next novels will make full use of the potential that's very clearly there!
short review for busy readers: gothic haunted house story set on a windswept Scottish island in the late 19th century. Suffers from some first novel problems. Atmosphere and setting are wonderfully done and the ghostly factor is fairly high. Pretty good for seasonal creeps, but won't satisfy genre aficionados very well.
In detail:
This is a good first novel and it reads like it.
Parts are really well done which show off the strong writing talent that's there, but that talent is unfortunately not yet well developed enough to achieve the lofty ambitions of the author.
First of all, the narrative voice ricochets between a YA-esque overuse of "I" - I did this, I did that - and seeming desire to copy the masterful gothic style of bygone eras, such as in Rebecca with dreamy statements like "I knew" and "I felt," which shows the author doesn't yet have a good enough grasp of the intricacies of 1st person narration. I found myself playing editor and mentally pulling out the red pen far too often.
The second problem point is the repetition.
Our narrator, Miss Swansome, repeats to us her basic emotional/motivational state at almost every turn. Be that she misses her dead sister, or she only wants to help the little girl she cares for, or that she's scared but determined. It's rather a lot of go-nowhere wheel-spinning which gives the impression that the author had only that handful worked out about the character and didn't know how to, or felt she needed to, broaden Miss Swansome's emotional range.
The third problem was the reveal and ending. No spoilers, but it's about as awkward, left-field, absurd of a twist as you can imagine.
This is not to say that the novel isn't readable or enjoyable or falls flat. Only that for her first novel, Ms Netley set the bar very, very high for herself. She clearly has a knack for settings and ghoulish atmosphere, and her characters are well chosen for the story she's telling.
In fact, it was the middle section, a place where many authors falter or lose momentum, which shines the brightest. But there is plenty of room for growth.
Hopefully, her next novels will make full use of the potential that's very clearly there!
March 27, 2024
The Whistling is a slow-burn gothic horror that I didn’t mind taking my time with. The atmosphere and suspense are built up so well over the course of the story. You will be left guessing until the very end. Honestly I wish I had saved this one for cooler winter nights to set the scene properly - would have made for a perfect ”Ghost Story For Christmas”! 👻🕯️
”I was being ridiculous. Ghosts did not exist. The dead did not walk. If they did, would not Clara have come to me? Had I not begged for one last glimpse, a glimpse that would have shown me that, wherever she was, she was happy? No, bodies rotted down and the only claim to life they had was in the memories of those who lived on. My heart gave an uneasy twist.
Perhaps it was my own steps upon the boards that had sent the engine rocking, and the sound that I had heard before, some strange effect of the wind. And as I took the stairs back down, I iterated it again.
Ghosts did not - could not - exist.”
4 Stars
”I was being ridiculous. Ghosts did not exist. The dead did not walk. If they did, would not Clara have come to me? Had I not begged for one last glimpse, a glimpse that would have shown me that, wherever she was, she was happy? No, bodies rotted down and the only claim to life they had was in the memories of those who lived on. My heart gave an uneasy twist.
Perhaps it was my own steps upon the boards that had sent the engine rocking, and the sound that I had heard before, some strange effect of the wind. And as I took the stairs back down, I iterated it again.
Ghosts did not - could not - exist.”
4 Stars
October 14, 2021
4****
This was another great autumn read with ghostly chills and mystery.
When I first requested this book I had no clue it was actually a historical fiction novel (that’s also a horror) so it was a surprise! The novel begins in 1860 with Elspeth, our MC, on a jutting boat, arriving on the fictional and isolated island of Skelthsea (set off of Scotland). She has left her old life in Edinburgh behind, and in this new place she is to become a nanny to a girl called Mary.
Upon Elspeth’s arrival, she realises that she will be employed in the grandest home on the island called ‘Iskar’ which is also the most imposing grand house on the island, situated on top of a hill, isolated from the village- basically all the things that alert to “Haunted House”. In addition, Elspeth finds that her new charge, Mary, in recent months has experienced the sudden abandonment of Hettie (the previously beloved nanny) and the sudden death of her twin brother, rendering her mute.
As Elspeth slowly gets to know Mary and the household, with experiences of sightings and hearing odd things, she realises all is not right in Iskar, and she will do all she can to protect Mary.
Within the first 5% of the book this already had all of the markings of a gothic book: Victorian setting; MC being introduced to a new area; twins; a mute child; a new nanny; secrets; mentions of witchcraft; a history of death; and a big, isolated house on some island. Despite this book having the typical “checklist” it was still so good and I quickly sped through it.
The author does so well in describing Iskar that it’s almost it’s own character, you can easily imagine the house and the town and the isolation. It was an eerie setting and the author made me feel this.
In addition, the author did so well in making me turn the pages. This book was wrapped up in “strange-goings-on”, mystery and beliefs that I needed to find out more.
I read this book fairly quickly- in 3 sittings I believe. I really enjoyed the eeriness and the mystery behind this book. I also enjoyed the MC as she was curious and naive and we got to see her own pain and experience too. Sometimes I thought the MC was a little too naive... but that might be because I’ve watched and read a lot of thrillers and now I end up questioning each characters motives.
Thank you to NetGalley for this E-Arc.
This was another great autumn read with ghostly chills and mystery.
When I first requested this book I had no clue it was actually a historical fiction novel (that’s also a horror) so it was a surprise! The novel begins in 1860 with Elspeth, our MC, on a jutting boat, arriving on the fictional and isolated island of Skelthsea (set off of Scotland). She has left her old life in Edinburgh behind, and in this new place she is to become a nanny to a girl called Mary.
Upon Elspeth’s arrival, she realises that she will be employed in the grandest home on the island called ‘Iskar’ which is also the most imposing grand house on the island, situated on top of a hill, isolated from the village- basically all the things that alert to “Haunted House”. In addition, Elspeth finds that her new charge, Mary, in recent months has experienced the sudden abandonment of Hettie (the previously beloved nanny) and the sudden death of her twin brother, rendering her mute.
As Elspeth slowly gets to know Mary and the household, with experiences of sightings and hearing odd things, she realises all is not right in Iskar, and she will do all she can to protect Mary.
Within the first 5% of the book this already had all of the markings of a gothic book: Victorian setting; MC being introduced to a new area; twins; a mute child; a new nanny; secrets; mentions of witchcraft; a history of death; and a big, isolated house on some island. Despite this book having the typical “checklist” it was still so good and I quickly sped through it.
The author does so well in describing Iskar that it’s almost it’s own character, you can easily imagine the house and the town and the isolation. It was an eerie setting and the author made me feel this.
In addition, the author did so well in making me turn the pages. This book was wrapped up in “strange-goings-on”, mystery and beliefs that I needed to find out more.
I read this book fairly quickly- in 3 sittings I believe. I really enjoyed the eeriness and the mystery behind this book. I also enjoyed the MC as she was curious and naive and we got to see her own pain and experience too. Sometimes I thought the MC was a little too naive... but that might be because I’ve watched and read a lot of thrillers and now I end up questioning each characters motives.
Thank you to NetGalley for this E-Arc.
October 17, 2021
I am afraid I grew impatient with this novel which was at times repetitive and too long. Bulging with Gothic tropes and nods to much more skilful writers in the gendre. Disappointing
January 2, 2022
Elspeth Swansome is still grieving for her deceased younger sister, Clara, when she enrols as the new nanny to a family on the remote Scottish island of Skelthsea. Her new home is plagued with the same suffering she knows innately as her young charge, Mary, hasn't spoken a word since her brother was taken from her. These two sad souls are drawn towards each other and ease the burden of their pasts with the solace of each other. But grief quickly proves to be the least of the entities they need to ward themselves against.
I was immediately immersed in this mysterious and eerie story. Mary's arrival was cloaked in drama and I felt the brooding setting become a silent character witnessing the events that occurred inside of it. I loved how the beauty of this isolated setting was offset by depictions of its loneliness, and also how many of the building's characteristics were shared by the central characters.
Menace seeped from these pages and I became as plagued with paranoia as the characters who featured inside the pages, and were constantly awaiting their next ordeal. Bumps in the night and shifting shadows were the least of all that occurred here...
The direction for this story was unforeseen, as was the root of the hauntings and mysteries. It proved to be the perfect spooky and Gothic read throughout and I am already eager to discover what mischief Rebecca Netley can next conjure.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Rebecca Netley, and the publisher, Michael Joseph, for this opportunity.
I was immediately immersed in this mysterious and eerie story. Mary's arrival was cloaked in drama and I felt the brooding setting become a silent character witnessing the events that occurred inside of it. I loved how the beauty of this isolated setting was offset by depictions of its loneliness, and also how many of the building's characteristics were shared by the central characters.
Menace seeped from these pages and I became as plagued with paranoia as the characters who featured inside the pages, and were constantly awaiting their next ordeal. Bumps in the night and shifting shadows were the least of all that occurred here...
The direction for this story was unforeseen, as was the root of the hauntings and mysteries. It proved to be the perfect spooky and Gothic read throughout and I am already eager to discover what mischief Rebecca Netley can next conjure.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Rebecca Netley, and the publisher, Michael Joseph, for this opportunity.
October 18, 2021
In 1860, a young woman arrives on the remote Scottish island of Skelthsea to begin a job as a nanny. Elspeth Swansome is looking to escape her life after the tragic death of her sister; she immediately forms a kinship with her charge, 9-year-old Mary, who has not spoken since her twin William passed away. Yet Elspeth also senses hostility on the island. People seem strangely reluctant to tell her how William died or what happened to the twins’ previous nanny. And the there’s that whistling sound she keeps hearing...
The setting of The Whistling is perfect, and to some extent the atmosphere matches it. I could picture both Skelthsea and the house distinctly: cold sea breeze, icy rain, wild cliff paths, peat smoke on the air. However, the rest of it just didn’t come together for me. The characters seem empty; the plot and structure feel like they need a few revisions. Elspeth seems to accept that something supernatural is going on before anything has really happened, and the remainder of the story is a mess of red herrings and uninteresting subplots. On top of that, the motive of the ‘villain’ is the kind of cliche that verges on offensive.
I hoped The Whistling would be this year’s The Apparition Phase, but no such luck. It fits comfortably into the ‘gothic chiller’ niche inhabited by books like The Silent Companions. There’s not an original idea to be found in this story, and while I don’t think that has to be a bad thing when it comes to this genre, there are simply too many better versions out there. I’d recommend The Lost Ones and The Quickening, two similar recent reads I found more enjoyable (both of which also happen to involve imposing houses and ghostly children).
I received an advance review copy of The Whistling from the publisher through NetGalley.
TinyLetter | Linktree
The setting of The Whistling is perfect, and to some extent the atmosphere matches it. I could picture both Skelthsea and the house distinctly: cold sea breeze, icy rain, wild cliff paths, peat smoke on the air. However, the rest of it just didn’t come together for me. The characters seem empty; the plot and structure feel like they need a few revisions. Elspeth seems to accept that something supernatural is going on before anything has really happened, and the remainder of the story is a mess of red herrings and uninteresting subplots. On top of that, the motive of the ‘villain’ is the kind of cliche that verges on offensive.
I hoped The Whistling would be this year’s The Apparition Phase, but no such luck. It fits comfortably into the ‘gothic chiller’ niche inhabited by books like The Silent Companions. There’s not an original idea to be found in this story, and while I don’t think that has to be a bad thing when it comes to this genre, there are simply too many better versions out there. I’d recommend The Lost Ones and The Quickening, two similar recent reads I found more enjoyable (both of which also happen to involve imposing houses and ghostly children).
I received an advance review copy of The Whistling from the publisher through NetGalley.
TinyLetter | Linktree
October 25, 2022
A good old fashioned Victorian gothic tale, it didn't blow me away but I was entertained nevertheless. All the necessary elements were there, draughty old house, mist, gloom and ghostly shenanigans, the mystery kept me reading and the ending was decent. The main character Elspeth, was frustrating at times, she spent a lot of time hesitating and quivering, but that's pretty much par for the course in this type of story. A solid debut novel from Rebecca Netley, I'm interested to see what she does next.
January 16, 2022
I was excited to read this but, my gosh, am I ever disappointed.
The writing in this book is dreadful. The sentence fragments, bizarre choice of words, incorrect grammar, and wildly inappropriate period dialogue was so jarring, I opened a note to capture some of the more bizarre quotes:
“I keep house here.”
[odd way of saying “I’m the housekeeper.”]
“How long since the last one left?”
[re: previous nanny. Fragment. People do not talk like this, especially in 1860!]
“I am accustomed to the response it brings.”
[re: facial scars. Very odd choice of phrasing]
“My sisters death took her very hard.”
[Say what?]
Mary did not smile but there was a flicker of something I moulded into pleasure.
[This doesn’t even make sense.]
Mary glanced back up and seemed to assess me and then, the smallest curve of pleasure crept on to her lips.
[Odd way of saying “She smiled”. Even if it was a hint of smile, there are many clearer ways this can be described.]
“Was it you who made the preparations to my room?”
[Odd phrasing of “Did you get my room ready?” At this stage, it seems like the author is deliberately, and badly, trying to pad sentence dialogue.]
“I am sad to learn of what happened to William. I have wondered what the accident was by which he died.”
[Another sentence fragment and exceptionally clunky dialogue choice. People do not talk like this. It doesn’t even make sense and reads like a bad translation!]
The house was small and homely, smelling of something newly baked.
[vague and manages to make fresh baking feel utterly bland]
“Does she often speak with no sense when she is in sleep?”
[Does she often talk in her sleep?]
I stopped capturing stupid sentences around page 40 for my own sanity. Part of my day job is editing copy and this was beyond triggering. I don’t know if the author was trying (and failing spectacularly) at being “arty”, but so many sentences were fragmented and awkward, the meaning was utterly lost!
The language choices in this book were straight out of elementary school: everything was bland, non-descript, and dull.
Overuse of basic, non-descriptive words: I am sad. This is sad. That is sad.
Also, vibrating. A whole host of people and objects were “vibrating”, usually directing this at the MC.
The characters were cardboard and boring. No one had any personality, they weren’t described in detail so the faceless dolls were apt as that’s pretty much exactly how I pictured them. The relationships did not feel genuine. No one behaved in a manner fitting to the period. Actions, speech, items, and behaviour were historically inaccurate to the point of distraction.
The MC was an idiot. She was so unsympathetic: meddling, condescending, and self-obsessed. Yet, somehow, at the same time entirely void of characterization or personality.
I wondered what had so early drawn her displeasure but perhaps it was jealousy of my elevated status or the fact that my occupancy would cause extra work.
[re: asking a low-ranking staff member something she’s been told not to discuss. Hmmm, maybe it’s because you’re a nosy cow that has lived here for five minutes and is already putting on airs and trying to stir the pot?
The internal monologuing and lack of self-awareness of the MC is tedious as hell.
There was no sense of time or place in this book. It could have been set in any time period in any place. The setting of a (fake?!) Scottish island was underutilized when it could have featured so prominently and been a key part of the story. What a wasted opportunity.
The ending was ridiculous and rendered most of the book (and the tedious stream of consciousness of the MC) irrelevant. Given how slow and clunky the book was, the ending would have had to have been pretty spectacular to make it worthwhile and it wasn’t.
Perhaps there is a good book here and in the hands of a more adept writer, could have been flushed out…
Oh, wait! It already has! This book is a badly written mash-up of The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell, The Nesting by CJ Cooke, The Story Keeper by Anna Mazzola, and Florence and Giles by John Harding
Read these books instead and give this a miss.
Once again, I am appalled by the lack of competency in the editing and publishing arenas. Given how many talented writers have already written this story (as above), publishing drivel like this just dilutes the genre and lowers the bar: the world doesn’t need more mediocrity. Ugh.
The writing in this book is dreadful. The sentence fragments, bizarre choice of words, incorrect grammar, and wildly inappropriate period dialogue was so jarring, I opened a note to capture some of the more bizarre quotes:
“I keep house here.”
[odd way of saying “I’m the housekeeper.”]
“How long since the last one left?”
[re: previous nanny. Fragment. People do not talk like this, especially in 1860!]
“I am accustomed to the response it brings.”
[re: facial scars. Very odd choice of phrasing]
“My sisters death took her very hard.”
[Say what?]
Mary did not smile but there was a flicker of something I moulded into pleasure.
[This doesn’t even make sense.]
Mary glanced back up and seemed to assess me and then, the smallest curve of pleasure crept on to her lips.
[Odd way of saying “She smiled”. Even if it was a hint of smile, there are many clearer ways this can be described.]
“Was it you who made the preparations to my room?”
[Odd phrasing of “Did you get my room ready?” At this stage, it seems like the author is deliberately, and badly, trying to pad sentence dialogue.]
“I am sad to learn of what happened to William. I have wondered what the accident was by which he died.”
[Another sentence fragment and exceptionally clunky dialogue choice. People do not talk like this. It doesn’t even make sense and reads like a bad translation!]
The house was small and homely, smelling of something newly baked.
[vague and manages to make fresh baking feel utterly bland]
“Does she often speak with no sense when she is in sleep?”
[Does she often talk in her sleep?]
I stopped capturing stupid sentences around page 40 for my own sanity. Part of my day job is editing copy and this was beyond triggering. I don’t know if the author was trying (and failing spectacularly) at being “arty”, but so many sentences were fragmented and awkward, the meaning was utterly lost!
The language choices in this book were straight out of elementary school: everything was bland, non-descript, and dull.
Overuse of basic, non-descriptive words: I am sad. This is sad. That is sad.
Also, vibrating. A whole host of people and objects were “vibrating”, usually directing this at the MC.
The characters were cardboard and boring. No one had any personality, they weren’t described in detail so the faceless dolls were apt as that’s pretty much exactly how I pictured them. The relationships did not feel genuine. No one behaved in a manner fitting to the period. Actions, speech, items, and behaviour were historically inaccurate to the point of distraction.
The MC was an idiot. She was so unsympathetic: meddling, condescending, and self-obsessed. Yet, somehow, at the same time entirely void of characterization or personality.
I wondered what had so early drawn her displeasure but perhaps it was jealousy of my elevated status or the fact that my occupancy would cause extra work.
[re: asking a low-ranking staff member something she’s been told not to discuss. Hmmm, maybe it’s because you’re a nosy cow that has lived here for five minutes and is already putting on airs and trying to stir the pot?
The internal monologuing and lack of self-awareness of the MC is tedious as hell.
There was no sense of time or place in this book. It could have been set in any time period in any place. The setting of a (fake?!) Scottish island was underutilized when it could have featured so prominently and been a key part of the story. What a wasted opportunity.
The ending was ridiculous and rendered most of the book (and the tedious stream of consciousness of the MC) irrelevant. Given how slow and clunky the book was, the ending would have had to have been pretty spectacular to make it worthwhile and it wasn’t.
Perhaps there is a good book here and in the hands of a more adept writer, could have been flushed out…
Oh, wait! It already has! This book is a badly written mash-up of The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell, The Nesting by CJ Cooke, The Story Keeper by Anna Mazzola, and Florence and Giles by John Harding
Read these books instead and give this a miss.
Once again, I am appalled by the lack of competency in the editing and publishing arenas. Given how many talented writers have already written this story (as above), publishing drivel like this just dilutes the genre and lowers the bar: the world doesn’t need more mediocrity. Ugh.
September 10, 2021
Really enjoyed this read. I'm all about the chilly reading in the lead up to spooky month and this ticked a lot of boxes for me.
A wild, isolated setting, a possibly haunted house, a silent child and a huge dose of witchery woo. Whats not to love?
It is creepy, found it played on my mind if I read it after dark and it is beautifully written. Its an intriguing and addictive take on the classic "Nanny heads to isolated spot to take care of strange child" theme and Rebecca Netley does a superb job of keeping you on edge throughout. It has the twisty sense of a psychological thriller and the disconcerting feel of a ghost story, those two things working in perfect harmony to deliver an excellent read.
Recommended.
A wild, isolated setting, a possibly haunted house, a silent child and a huge dose of witchery woo. Whats not to love?
It is creepy, found it played on my mind if I read it after dark and it is beautifully written. Its an intriguing and addictive take on the classic "Nanny heads to isolated spot to take care of strange child" theme and Rebecca Netley does a superb job of keeping you on edge throughout. It has the twisty sense of a psychological thriller and the disconcerting feel of a ghost story, those two things working in perfect harmony to deliver an excellent read.
Recommended.
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January 18, 2024MYSTERY SOLVED!!!
This was a good one. I struggled a tiny bit in the last 20% but overall, this checked a lot of boxes. Solid Gothic ghost story. Full review to come
This was a good one. I struggled a tiny bit in the last 20% but overall, this checked a lot of boxes. Solid Gothic ghost story. Full review to come
October 5, 2021
It’s this time of year that I start looking for spooky, atmospheric reads and THE WHISTLING fitted that category perfectly, from its cover to its claustrophobic setting seasoned with plenty of spooky vibes. Its basic premise is an oldie but a goodie: a nanny arrives on a remote Scottish island to take up a position in a grand old manor house, full of hope for a better future and to escape her own personal tragedy. She soon discovers, however, that there may be a good reason the previous nanny left in a hurry, never to be seen again. Elspeth’s charge, nine year old Mary, is so traumatised after the death of her mother and her brother, that she has been mute ever since. Her aunt, a stern, austere woman, will not speak of the past. And the house itself harbours secrets that may lay in a realm outside the human consciousness (let’s just come out with it, the house is haunted!).
I loved the way Netley set the scene. From the moment Elspeth arrived on the island, I could picture it all vividly. The rugged coastline, so stunning in summer, that turns sinister and dangerous in the cold, dark and misty days of winter. The old house, grand from a distance, but with signs of neglect that run deeper than just financial – and of course there are rooms that shall not be entered, and secrets that shall not ever be spoken of. Dark corridors, lit only by flickering candle light. Hostile servants. Whispers in the night, objects that are never in the same place, dusty portraits staring down from the walls, an eerie lullaby coming from the nursery at night. Netley’s descriptive writing brought it all vividly to life in my head. And Elspeth’s own tragic past made her a well rounded character whose motives and aspirations I could easily relate to.
From here follows a story that may not reinvent the traditional haunted house story, but runs with the tropes and uses them well to create a tense, eerie atmosphere. Apart from supernatural vibes, there is a whisper of witchcraft and wise women that fits in well with the era and the setting. I read this at night and got the full effect of the spooky atmosphere. The mystery at the heart of the story gave it extra depth, even though I felt that the ending felt a bit rushed to me after the deliciously slow and tense build-up.
All in all, THE WHISTLING is a beautifully written, haunting novel with a classical haunted mansion theme and a wonderful atmospheric setting. Netley’s writing has a dreamlike, almost wistful quality that made it easy to emotionally connect with the characters, the place and the era it is set in. If you love spooky old houses, the dark corridors of Skelthsea’s manor will lure you in and send shivers up your spine. If you are looking for a perfect Halloween read, and love slower, atmospheric novels in the vein of Laura Purcell or Michelle Paver, then look no further!
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Michael Joseph UK for the free electronic copy of this novel and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.
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I loved the way Netley set the scene. From the moment Elspeth arrived on the island, I could picture it all vividly. The rugged coastline, so stunning in summer, that turns sinister and dangerous in the cold, dark and misty days of winter. The old house, grand from a distance, but with signs of neglect that run deeper than just financial – and of course there are rooms that shall not be entered, and secrets that shall not ever be spoken of. Dark corridors, lit only by flickering candle light. Hostile servants. Whispers in the night, objects that are never in the same place, dusty portraits staring down from the walls, an eerie lullaby coming from the nursery at night. Netley’s descriptive writing brought it all vividly to life in my head. And Elspeth’s own tragic past made her a well rounded character whose motives and aspirations I could easily relate to.
From here follows a story that may not reinvent the traditional haunted house story, but runs with the tropes and uses them well to create a tense, eerie atmosphere. Apart from supernatural vibes, there is a whisper of witchcraft and wise women that fits in well with the era and the setting. I read this at night and got the full effect of the spooky atmosphere. The mystery at the heart of the story gave it extra depth, even though I felt that the ending felt a bit rushed to me after the deliciously slow and tense build-up.
All in all, THE WHISTLING is a beautifully written, haunting novel with a classical haunted mansion theme and a wonderful atmospheric setting. Netley’s writing has a dreamlike, almost wistful quality that made it easy to emotionally connect with the characters, the place and the era it is set in. If you love spooky old houses, the dark corridors of Skelthsea’s manor will lure you in and send shivers up your spine. If you are looking for a perfect Halloween read, and love slower, atmospheric novels in the vein of Laura Purcell or Michelle Paver, then look no further!
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Michael Joseph UK for the free electronic copy of this novel and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.
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June 30, 2023Set on an isolated island off the rugged coast of Scotland in the 19th century, The Whistling stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the other chilling gothic ghost stories of its genre.
A must-read for fans of Laura Purcell, Daphne du Maurier, and Susan Hill, Rebecca Netley’s The Whistling follows Elspeth, a nanny hired to care for a mute nine-year-old girl who has already seen so much tragedy.
Mary’s mother has died, her last nanny left for the US, and her twin brother William perished in a harrowing accident. Now she can no longer speak, but Elspeth is keen to bond with her and stave off Mary’s sorrow and loneliness.
Unfortunately, the large house on the isolated rock hides sinister secrets, and ghostly sounds are keeping Elspeth up at night.
My full thoughts: https://booksandbao.com/best-horror-n...
A must-read for fans of Laura Purcell, Daphne du Maurier, and Susan Hill, Rebecca Netley’s The Whistling follows Elspeth, a nanny hired to care for a mute nine-year-old girl who has already seen so much tragedy.
Mary’s mother has died, her last nanny left for the US, and her twin brother William perished in a harrowing accident. Now she can no longer speak, but Elspeth is keen to bond with her and stave off Mary’s sorrow and loneliness.
Unfortunately, the large house on the isolated rock hides sinister secrets, and ghostly sounds are keeping Elspeth up at night.
My full thoughts: https://booksandbao.com/best-horror-n...
September 29, 2021
Discover the locations within The Whistling * if you dare* whoah haha
If it’s a spooky story you are after, then this is the one for you! Whispers in corridors, whistling winds, unexplained sightings and a sense of foreboding throughout.
The set up is perfect for this time of year. As the dark nights draw in, a nanny heads to a remote Scottish island. She is running from a troubled past and hopes to have a fresh start. However, that’s not going to happen. Her charge is mute and there’s tragedy in her past. To make matters worse, the former nanny unexplainably disappeared. Now that is a good set of spooky ingredients right?
The setting and evocation of island life is fascinating to read about. It all feels very real and spooky. A decaying house with shadows and secrets? Whistling that can’t be explained? A missing nanny and a mute child? An island shrouded in mist and mystery?
This is not one to read at night as I found it genuinely unsettling. I am a sucker for punishment and read it on a backlit Kindle paperwhite at night. Whoah haha. That worked well! I didn’t dream at all of the events of the book afterwards. Managed to sleep every night straight through without problems. Yes, totally.
This is THE book for Halloween and those dark winter nights.
March 18, 2025
4.25/5 stars.
This book satisfied my desire for some gothic horror. It honestly reminded me a bit of The Woman in Black, The Turning, and The Haunting of Bly Manor. It at least gave me the same type of experience as those two stories.
Unexplained deaths and disappearances, rumors of witchcraft and ghosts, unnerving children, and a haunting manor. I pretty much loved everything about this book. All of the things just listed as well as the setting: a secluded Scottish island.
While Elspeth arrives to help with Mary, a young child who hasn’t spoken in months after the death of her brother, she begins to have some harrowing experiences within this house. She can’t explain what she is seeing, hearing, and feeling. The only explanation might be a supernatural one.
I really loved the tension between the characters. This book had an air of mystery to it on top of everything else. Elspeth goes looking for the truth and we get to follow her on the journey. We get to see Elspeth and Mary’s relationship develop. They both are grieving from recent deaths and really lean on each others.
TW: child death, death, grief, murder, death of parent, animal death, injury detail, child abuse, blood, fire injury, infidelity, animal cruelty, suicide, toxic friendship, emotional abuse, pregnancy, infertility, miscarriage, bullying
StoryGraph Review
Fable Review
This book satisfied my desire for some gothic horror. It honestly reminded me a bit of The Woman in Black, The Turning, and The Haunting of Bly Manor. It at least gave me the same type of experience as those two stories.
Unexplained deaths and disappearances, rumors of witchcraft and ghosts, unnerving children, and a haunting manor. I pretty much loved everything about this book. All of the things just listed as well as the setting: a secluded Scottish island.
While Elspeth arrives to help with Mary, a young child who hasn’t spoken in months after the death of her brother, she begins to have some harrowing experiences within this house. She can’t explain what she is seeing, hearing, and feeling. The only explanation might be a supernatural one.
I really loved the tension between the characters. This book had an air of mystery to it on top of everything else. Elspeth goes looking for the truth and we get to follow her on the journey. We get to see Elspeth and Mary’s relationship develop. They both are grieving from recent deaths and really lean on each others.
TW: child death, death, grief, murder, death of parent, animal death, injury detail, child abuse, blood, fire injury, infidelity, animal cruelty, suicide, toxic friendship, emotional abuse, pregnancy, infertility, miscarriage, bullying
StoryGraph Review
Fable Review
September 12, 2021
The Whistling is a spooky gothic story of love and loss, of tragedy and revenge, of summoning others to do your bidding when you're unable to do it yourself. I absolutely loved it. I've been struggling to read lately, given I spend so much time writing myself. I was fortunate enough to receive an early copy of this paperback from my agent and I brought it on holiday. As soon as I started reading, I barely found time to look up from the page. Netley has a gift when it comes to describing setting, nothing is overdone but she portrays the remote Scottish island of Skelthsea in such a way that you can sense every ounce of its being, along with the crumbling home of Iskar and the people within. I particularly enjoyed trying to work out who could be trusted and who could not. This is not horror novel but rather a silently creeping gothic mystery that finds its way to your bones. The story is beautifully told in such a haunting manner that it will play on your mind long after you finally rest the pages. It reminded me very much of a Susan Hill novel and I look forward to Netley's next offering.
September 3, 2023
This book could have been 200 pages less but still the author decided to turn this into a 400 page thriller while there was no thrill at all.
200 pages in and I still knew nothing. The only thing that has happened was the moving of her slippers during the night 💀
Not worth the read.
200 pages in and I still knew nothing. The only thing that has happened was the moving of her slippers during the night 💀
Not worth the read.
November 20, 2021
Rebecca Netley’s debut novel The Whistling is an eerie ghost story set in Scotland in 1860. After her beloved sister Clara dies in a tragic accident leaving her with no familial ties, narrator Elspeth Swansome leaves Edinburgh to take up a post of a nanny at Skelthsea, a fictional island off the North coast of Scotland. Like Elspeth, her charge Mary has seen her fair share of tragedies, first losing her parents and then her twin brother William. Mary now lives with her aunt, Miss Gillies, at Iskar, a decaying mansion on the island. Elspeth’s main challenge is to get Mary to speak, since the girl has not uttered a word since William’s death. But things are more complicated than they first appear. Neither the members of the household nor the villagers are keen to speak about what happened to William. To make matters worse, something is definitely “off” at Iskar, and Elspeth is haunted by strange whistling and humming at night and other ghostly manifestations. The nanny might well be the victim of an overactive imagination fuelled by grief, except that she also starts coming across strange-looking dolls and charms suggesting dark magical practices. As winter approaches and travelling to the mainland becomes increasingly difficult, Elspeth’s oppressive sense of foreboding intensifies, and it soon becomes clear that action needs to be taken if further tragedies are to be averted.
Reading The Whistling feels like snuggling into a favourite old jumper. The “haunted nanny” is such a well-worn trope it could be considered a sub-genre, and the novel delights in reproposing the familiar elements of the classic ghost story: nightly escapades, spectral visitations, abandoned rooms, Gothic-infused landscapes of cliffs, beach and storm-roiled seas… You name it, and it’s probably there. Even the evocative chiaroscuro book cover fits into this “traditional” aesthetic. But Netley, who won the Exeter Prize with The Whistling, certainly knows how to repackage these ingredients into an enjoyable novel, strong on atmosphere and plot-twists. This is definitely a book to savour during the haunted seasons of Halloween or Christmas!
https://endsoftheword.blogspot.com/20...
Reading The Whistling feels like snuggling into a favourite old jumper. The “haunted nanny” is such a well-worn trope it could be considered a sub-genre, and the novel delights in reproposing the familiar elements of the classic ghost story: nightly escapades, spectral visitations, abandoned rooms, Gothic-infused landscapes of cliffs, beach and storm-roiled seas… You name it, and it’s probably there. Even the evocative chiaroscuro book cover fits into this “traditional” aesthetic. But Netley, who won the Exeter Prize with The Whistling, certainly knows how to repackage these ingredients into an enjoyable novel, strong on atmosphere and plot-twists. This is definitely a book to savour during the haunted seasons of Halloween or Christmas!
https://endsoftheword.blogspot.com/20...
February 23, 2024
Slow burn, gothic mystery
This was a very slow burn with very little reward; I wanted it to have more of an impact but towards the end I was just bored and not overly interested. I enjoyed the gothic vibes and the whole ‘Turn of the Screw’ feel but for me the plot was too slow and convoluted with no real shock factor and the twist was very predictable and the climax over too fast.
This was a very slow burn with very little reward; I wanted it to have more of an impact but towards the end I was just bored and not overly interested. I enjoyed the gothic vibes and the whole ‘Turn of the Screw’ feel but for me the plot was too slow and convoluted with no real shock factor and the twist was very predictable and the climax over too fast.
January 11, 2025
[TW/CW: loss of sibling, death of parents, anxiety, miscarriages, infertility, cheating, toxic family relationships]
*****SPOILERS*****
About the book:
Alone in the world, Elspeth Swansome has taken the position of nanny to a family on the remote Scottish island of Skelthsea. Her charge, Mary, is a troubled child. Distracted and secretive, she hasn't uttered a word since the sudden death of her twin, William—just days after their former nanny disappeared.
With Mary defiantly silent, Elspeth turns to the islanders. But no one will speak of what happened to William. Just as no one can explain the hypnotic lullabies sung in empty corridors. Nor the strange dolls that appear in abandoned rooms.
Nor the faint whistling that comes in the night...
As winter draws in and passage to the mainland becomes impossible, Elspeth finds herself trapped.
Release Date: October 14th, 2021
Genre: supernatural
Pages: 378
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
What I Liked:
1. Very atmospheric
2. Writing style was okay
What I Didn't Like:
1. Book bad HUGE print
2. Ending basic
3. More thriller than supernatural
4. Basic surface level characters
Overall Thoughts:
{{Disclaimer: I write my review as I read}}
There is no way that Hattie wasn't murdered. I imagine that Hattie was protecting William when William died and Hattie was then murdered also.
So, yes Hattie is dead - found washed to shore during a bad storm.
The way Bridget talks about Hattie has me wondering if there was something between Bridget's husband and Hattie. There is a part in the book where Elspeth is asking Bridget about Hattie and her men that she was with and that Reid was her last one. Bridget answers with as far as I know and promptly changes the subject. I am now convinced that Hattie was indeed with Bridget's husband.
What if the letter that Miss. Gillies had sent out about Mary going to an asylum was actually about Elspeth.
I am absolutely shocked that Elspeth has even lived this long after she goes from random person to the next telling them everything she's found and knows. This is a tight knit group of islanders so why go around telling all your secrets???
Of course Elspeth goes to Bridget and tells her everything she knows. Bridget says her sister lives on a neighboring island and they will come for her and Mary. Elspeth even says she'll take everything she has that has proof. So stupid. Bridget is going to have her and Mary killed.
What was Bridget's plan for killing Elspeth and Mary on a boat she's rowing? Was she going to beat Mary with an oar but Elspeth not attack her? Either way they'd all end up in the water.
Greer being apart of the death of Hattie and William is sick, so despite Elspeth hearing the she sold out a child and a pregnant woman she asks Greer if they can be friends. Why? Why would you want the friendship of someone like that?
Final Thoughts:
This book was just meh okay. Ending lacked and turned into a basic everyday thriller of cheating and murder.
IG | Blog
*****SPOILERS*****
About the book:
Alone in the world, Elspeth Swansome has taken the position of nanny to a family on the remote Scottish island of Skelthsea. Her charge, Mary, is a troubled child. Distracted and secretive, she hasn't uttered a word since the sudden death of her twin, William—just days after their former nanny disappeared.
With Mary defiantly silent, Elspeth turns to the islanders. But no one will speak of what happened to William. Just as no one can explain the hypnotic lullabies sung in empty corridors. Nor the strange dolls that appear in abandoned rooms.
Nor the faint whistling that comes in the night...
As winter draws in and passage to the mainland becomes impossible, Elspeth finds herself trapped.
Release Date: October 14th, 2021
Genre: supernatural
Pages: 378
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
What I Liked:
1. Very atmospheric
2. Writing style was okay
What I Didn't Like:
1. Book bad HUGE print
2. Ending basic
3. More thriller than supernatural
4. Basic surface level characters
Overall Thoughts:
{{Disclaimer: I write my review as I read}}
There is no way that Hattie wasn't murdered. I imagine that Hattie was protecting William when William died and Hattie was then murdered also.
So, yes Hattie is dead - found washed to shore during a bad storm.
The way Bridget talks about Hattie has me wondering if there was something between Bridget's husband and Hattie. There is a part in the book where Elspeth is asking Bridget about Hattie and her men that she was with and that Reid was her last one. Bridget answers with as far as I know and promptly changes the subject. I am now convinced that Hattie was indeed with Bridget's husband.
What if the letter that Miss. Gillies had sent out about Mary going to an asylum was actually about Elspeth.
I am absolutely shocked that Elspeth has even lived this long after she goes from random person to the next telling them everything she's found and knows. This is a tight knit group of islanders so why go around telling all your secrets???
Of course Elspeth goes to Bridget and tells her everything she knows. Bridget says her sister lives on a neighboring island and they will come for her and Mary. Elspeth even says she'll take everything she has that has proof. So stupid. Bridget is going to have her and Mary killed.
What was Bridget's plan for killing Elspeth and Mary on a boat she's rowing? Was she going to beat Mary with an oar but Elspeth not attack her? Either way they'd all end up in the water.
Greer being apart of the death of Hattie and William is sick, so despite Elspeth hearing the she sold out a child and a pregnant woman she asks Greer if they can be friends. Why? Why would you want the friendship of someone like that?
Final Thoughts:
This book was just meh okay. Ending lacked and turned into a basic everyday thriller of cheating and murder.
IG | Blog
November 14, 2021
As a proud Scotsman in exile, I am always interested in spooky stories set in my homeland; tales which spirit me back to my childhood in the windswept north-east coastal area of the country. Sadly, Rebecca Netley’s debut, The Whistling, failed to fire my imagination and the location, the fictional island of Skelthsea, undoubtedly has something to do with it. There are countless breezy, desolate and atmospheric spots in the Western Isles, so I saw little logic in fabricating this key setting. To a Scotsman, this feels somewhat like cheating and genuine places like Mull, Skye, or Barra, for example, would have made this tale much more authentic. Francine Toon's Pine is a terrific recent example of a recent ghost story which did exactly that, making excellent use of its rugged north of Scotland location.
You can read Tony's full review at Horror DNA by clicking here.
You can read Tony's full review at Horror DNA by clicking here.
October 26, 2021
Many thanks to Netgalley, Penguin Random House UK for the advanced reading copy of The Whistling. And to Rebecca Netley who wrote a book that actually made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.
Rebecca Netleys writing is incredibly descriptive, which is perfect for a book of this nature. The descriptions allow you to feel like you're actually there and sets the atmosphere. I could almost feel the cold rain on my face and fierce wind blowing through my bones.
Our main character Elspeth has has a traumatic time and needs to get away from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh. She takes a job to be a nanny in Skelthsea, a tiny island in Scotland. When the boat arrives at Skelthsea, Elspeth gets the first glimpse of what is to be her new home. Iskar is the largest house on the island and has been in the family for many years. It's old creaky floor boards, thread bare carpet and dimly lit rooms were not quite what Elspeth had expected. But she is eager to meet Mary, the little girl who she will be spending most of her time at Iskar taking care of. But it soon becomes clear that all is not well with Mary. After losing her twin brother the girl is understandably grieving but is that all that haunts her?!? They soon become close but can Mary be trusted. Or is there someone else that Elspeth should be worried about....
I read this in 2 sittings, wrapped up under a blanket, with just a candle for light. It really is the perfect read for this time of year, it has all you want in an autumn read, especially on the lead up to Halloween. I loved the dark, gothic vibes of the old house and the island itself. And the character building is fantastic, you really get to know them and become fond of (most) of them, even if you are unsure who is good and who is bad. It's hard to believe that this is Rebecca Netleys debut novel, I will be patiently anticipating her next release. I think we can expect more great things to come.
Rebecca Netleys writing is incredibly descriptive, which is perfect for a book of this nature. The descriptions allow you to feel like you're actually there and sets the atmosphere. I could almost feel the cold rain on my face and fierce wind blowing through my bones.
Our main character Elspeth has has a traumatic time and needs to get away from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh. She takes a job to be a nanny in Skelthsea, a tiny island in Scotland. When the boat arrives at Skelthsea, Elspeth gets the first glimpse of what is to be her new home. Iskar is the largest house on the island and has been in the family for many years. It's old creaky floor boards, thread bare carpet and dimly lit rooms were not quite what Elspeth had expected. But she is eager to meet Mary, the little girl who she will be spending most of her time at Iskar taking care of. But it soon becomes clear that all is not well with Mary. After losing her twin brother the girl is understandably grieving but is that all that haunts her?!? They soon become close but can Mary be trusted. Or is there someone else that Elspeth should be worried about....
I read this in 2 sittings, wrapped up under a blanket, with just a candle for light. It really is the perfect read for this time of year, it has all you want in an autumn read, especially on the lead up to Halloween. I loved the dark, gothic vibes of the old house and the island itself. And the character building is fantastic, you really get to know them and become fond of (most) of them, even if you are unsure who is good and who is bad. It's hard to believe that this is Rebecca Netleys debut novel, I will be patiently anticipating her next release. I think we can expect more great things to come.
March 10, 2024
3,5 / 5 ⭐
Spannend und mysteriös, auch wenn man einige Wendungen erahnen könnte. Den Sprachstil fand ich teils leider etwas holprig.
Spannend und mysteriös, auch wenn man einige Wendungen erahnen könnte. Den Sprachstil fand ich teils leider etwas holprig.
October 3, 2021
The Whistling is a hauntingly atmospheric story, set on a remote Scottish island and harnessing all the elements of Gothic tales to create a richly satisfying read.
Elspeth is a young woman, left upset after the recent death of her sister, who has come to a remote Scottish island to look after a young girl called Mary. From the moment she arrives she hears strange tales of the house and its inhabitants, the seeds of distrust are sewn and we watch as Elspeth tries to uncover exactly what is happening.
Her young charge is mute and suffers extreme nightmares. Elspeth quickly succumbs to the charms of feeling useful and developing a bond with this young girl who has not spoken since the death of her brother. No one can establish what has happened, but rumours circulate the island and the sense of oppression and menace grows.
As the story progresses we focus on the background to some of the characters, and the development of the suitably eerie island they call home. Unexplained events and strange noises are made to seem quite terrifying, and yet I admired the strength of character shown by Elspeth as she tries to navigate this place.
Perhaps this is to be expected, but our heroine makes mistakes and her own shortcomings are exploited perfectly by those who have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo. The final stages of the book shifted in a not wholly unexpected direction, though I have to say the actual revelation was deftly handled.
This was a book I found myself immersed in, and I’m grateful to the publishers and NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to read it prior to publication in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Elspeth is a young woman, left upset after the recent death of her sister, who has come to a remote Scottish island to look after a young girl called Mary. From the moment she arrives she hears strange tales of the house and its inhabitants, the seeds of distrust are sewn and we watch as Elspeth tries to uncover exactly what is happening.
Her young charge is mute and suffers extreme nightmares. Elspeth quickly succumbs to the charms of feeling useful and developing a bond with this young girl who has not spoken since the death of her brother. No one can establish what has happened, but rumours circulate the island and the sense of oppression and menace grows.
As the story progresses we focus on the background to some of the characters, and the development of the suitably eerie island they call home. Unexplained events and strange noises are made to seem quite terrifying, and yet I admired the strength of character shown by Elspeth as she tries to navigate this place.
Perhaps this is to be expected, but our heroine makes mistakes and her own shortcomings are exploited perfectly by those who have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo. The final stages of the book shifted in a not wholly unexpected direction, though I have to say the actual revelation was deftly handled.
This was a book I found myself immersed in, and I’m grateful to the publishers and NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to read it prior to publication in exchange for my honest thoughts.
December 22, 2021
This was a total disappointment. First of all, it's far more atmospheric than it is scary (i.e. cold and windswept surroundings, creepy house, murder, etc.). Second, if I had a nickel for every time the narrator (Elspeth) mentioned someone's eyes or a weighty "look", I would truly be at least partially wealthy. It drove me NUTS. You cannot always surmise what someone is thinking just because they have a "look" about them. In this story, looks are all that is needed to practically read someone's mind and that is such bulls**t. We got far too many looks rather than actual dialog although the dialog wasn't much to be desired especially toward the end when the true killer is revealed with basically no prompting whatsoever ("Yes, I killed Hettie" this person says, apropos of nothing). Third, the reasoning behind Mary's muteness and Greer's vilification by Elspeth were also annoying little bits. Would a child truly be rendered MUTE because of THAT? I don't know, but it seems kind of absurd. Also, just because someone is chronically bitchy to you because of your constant meddling in things you honestly do not know anything about, it does not mean that person is a witch, Elspeth. There was just so much in this book that made me roll my eyes to the very back of head because it was just...silly or overwrought. And the ending just came so quickly, largely as a result of *sigh* A LOOK. Would a murderer confess so quickly? It doesn't matter...I'm making myself forget I ever read this story...starting now.
January 9, 2023
"I felt a moment of chilling shock. There was another shift somewhere in the house, and the boards groaned beneath a step that could no longer belong to her. I was not alone, and whoever it was was listening to me in the quiet. It came to me then that Mary had never been in the house, that whoever I had heard had always been someone else."
Witches, and murder, and ghosts, oh my!
This was such a beautifully written gothic story, set on a tiny Scottish Island in 1860. It follows a young Nanny, grieving the death of her younger sister, who goes to the island to care for a girl, rendered mute by the death of her twin brother. Elspeth soon notices strange goings on at the house and finds herself wrapped up in a mystery and fearing for her life.
I absolutely adored everything about this and I was devastated when I got to the end. I look forward to seeing what else this author has written.
Witches, and murder, and ghosts, oh my!
This was such a beautifully written gothic story, set on a tiny Scottish Island in 1860. It follows a young Nanny, grieving the death of her younger sister, who goes to the island to care for a girl, rendered mute by the death of her twin brother. Elspeth soon notices strange goings on at the house and finds herself wrapped up in a mystery and fearing for her life.
I absolutely adored everything about this and I was devastated when I got to the end. I look forward to seeing what else this author has written.
November 8, 2021
It's unusual for me to give up on a book, and it's clear lots of people enjoyed this, but I found it unreadable. It's difficult to write authentically in the style of a Victorian novel and the author doesn't come close. The result is a clunky pastiche that is riddled with cliches. In terms of plot, it seems to be heavily influenced by The Turn of the Screw with a bit of Jayne Eyre thrown in, and did I mention the cliches... I really wanted to love The Whistling and I was hoping for a successor to Susan Hill who writes beautifully about the period, but sadly it wasn't to be. Two stars rather than one because I feel bad for not liking it.
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