The House Next Door: A Ghost Story

This was okay; I can't say that I was riveted throughout, but not a bad read. We are never told what job the protagonist has; maybe I missed it? She really likes to bake but she is home all the time and somehow without any needed income or desire to actually leave her house and go somewhere. She is literally home or at her neighbor's (the one in the spooky house) for the whole book. More characters and perhaps even another plotline or two would have added some depth to what was otherwise a fine but not particularly engaging narrative. I also found it very odd that when the neighbor's controlling, abusive ex-boyfriend breaks into the house, neither girl even thinks "Hm, maybe we should call the police." Rather, like all characters, they fend for themselves. This has become so commonplace in thrillers and horror stories that it has just lost all verisimilitude. Overall decent, not great.

I love this author! She draws you in and keeps it believable. A great storyline that flows so easily, and the ending that is completely brought together for the perfect conclusion.. Highly recommend this story as well as this authors other works.

It was very good. I enjoyed the character development of the story. It is not a typical horror story that you just know how it is going to end about half way through. That is why I love Darcy Coats books. Great story telling.

My favorite of Darcy Coate's books so far for the haunted house books. The story and plot were excellent, and I loved the characters. I liked her take on doing first-person narration with this book as well. This was a page-turner and a fast read. Loved it.

Scary as they get without the blood and gore and that is how I like it! Great ghost story as only Darcy Coates can write it! Chills that will have you turning on the lights as you read!
I am a huge fan of Darcy's and highly recommend this book and all of her others. So few authors are able to write a great ghost story and this is one of them!!!! I loved the audible version. Many thanks!

My teenage daughter listen to her books in the car on long trips- we live her books, and my daughter thinks it's hysterical when I gasp at new details and pull faces at gross descriptions. This book was a little too real for her in some ways- it focuses more on scary people than scary ghosts and my daughter (13) isn't ready for that twist. All in all, entertaining, but not my favorite Coates!

My wife really liked the story, said it reminded her of some Barbara Michael's books she used to read. She will probably read more of Darcy Coates in the future. She said there were a few slow parts in the story, that's why she gave it 4 stars instead of 5.

The book was slow at times but it wasn't a bad book. If you are looking for something incredibly frightening then this isn't the book for you. If you are looking for a light easy read that has a ghost in it then I recommend this book.

3.5 Stars

Jo lives home next to a haunted house. For years she has seen families move in next door and leave in the hurry in the middle of the night shortly after the movie. The entire neighborhood avoids it, including Jo’s own cats. The lights turn on randomly at night, the doors slam on their own, and birds keep flying into it and breaking their neck.

Now a desperate young woman moves in and Jo cannot help but feel protective of her. There is something Anna isn’t telling her about her own past, that she wants to avoid, and the house is the only sanctuary she can afford. Anna is sweet, timid and remakes dolls, a perfect soul for the ghost to cling onto.

This was an interesting read. It was definitely a creepy ghost story, very chilling, very atmospheric, with a few scenes that made my stomach turn. It does have scenes with animals getting hurt in it, and those animals are usually birds that fly into the house. If that disturbs you, just be aware.

I only read this book once in the night and decided not to do that again. It most definitely gave me a nightmare.

The writing was good. It was my first Coates reads and it won’t be my last.

There were a few things that I had a gripe with and one of that was the fact that when Jo googled the house online, she couldn’t find anything about it. When she spoke to her neighbor, the neighbor told Jo that when the store broke it’s all the news spoke about on the TV, so I would have thought something would have been found online.

Second, there was a scene with Anna’s ex, who does not have proof that Anna lives in the house but goes through her trash one night and finds something in it and assumptions fly and the girls end up in danger. The whole thing was just weird for me.

Overall though, if you like ghost stories, this was a very creepy but interesting read.

I've read all of DC's books. She's got some great books. I felt like this one was not as good as the others. It starts off slow. No real action until after halfway through the book. Eventually you find out who's haunting the house, but even that isn't really exciting. After the ghost is taken care of, the characters move on. I was kind of left wanting something scarier and definitely more action. I felt like there needed to be "more" to the haunting.
Anyway, if you have Kindle Unlimited, give it a read. If not, definitely don't pay for it. Read some of the author's better books!

This book was super creepy with an original concept. The main character, in an interesting twist, lives next door to a haunted house but is relatively unaffected by the haunting until she befriends the house's latest tenant- a woman on the run from her past with nowhere else to go. As they find themselves getting sucked deeper and deeper into the house's secret past, both characters begin to act under the influence of the ghost who haunts the place.

I will say this was one scary book. I usually love reading horror novels at night, but I actually had to put this one down and resume reading during daylight hours! My only complaint is purely subjective. I usually finish Darcy's books with a sense of vindication. In her stories, everything is put right at the end and the surviving characters come out relatively unscathed. With this book, perhaps because it was so genuinely creepy, I had a hard time shaking free of the character's manipulated actions. Maybe that's the mark of a truly amazing book! Regardless, this was a worthwhile read. I particularly love that all of Darcy's novels are in the Kindle Unlimited program so I can read to my heart's content.

I’m a sucker for a good ghost story, so I had high hopes when I recently came across one entitled “The House Next Door: a Ghost Story” by Darcy Coates. I felt it was definitely worth the read.

-- Introducing Nosy Neighbor Jo --

The story takes place from the point of view of Jo, a woman who lives next door to the Marwick House, a home many claim is haunted. Anything planted in the front yard of the house dies, and there’s often a strange flickering off and on of the lights in the middle of the night. Jo’s three cats won’t even go near the place.


And then there’s the time when Jo was awakened by gunshots, followed by the current occupants of the Marwick House screaming then fleeing in the middle of the night (they never even came back for their belongings). And then there are all of the other families who fled the house, many after only a couple of months.

But one day, Jo notices that someone is moving in next door, and she can’t help but wonder who the next victim…er…..tenant of the house is.

-- Enter Anna --

Ever the nosy neighbor, Anna bakes some goodies and goes over to the Marwick House to introduce herself. She learns that the new occupant of the Marwick House is a secretive single woman named Anna, a self-employed doll maker who got an “unbelievable deal” on the house.

A friendship slowly develops between the two and Jo learns that Anna has some secrets of her own — dangerous ones.

-- The Hauntings Begin -- 


It’s not too long afterward that strange things begin happening in the house: peculiar noises, music coming from the piano room, voices, whispering and lights coming on by themselves. But strangely enough, Anna doesn’t seem particularly bothered by them.

Anna and Jo learn more about the ghost and the past happenings at Marwick House in an attempt to understand what’s behind all the strange goings-on. From then, the novel takes a turn from being a simple haunted house story to a psychological thriller, with not only a ghostly villain but a human one as well.

Jo realizes that not only is her neighbor’s safety in jeopardy but hers as well — and it will take all of her willpower to save them both.

-- The Verdict --

I thought that the author’s writing was clear and evocative and managed to get in the heads and hearts of Jo, Anna, and the ghosts. A lot of attention was placed on the malevolent atmosphere of the house and its effect on people, rendering the story even more spine-chilling.


I was a bit surprised how frightening the House Next Door ended up being, with the entire neighborhood being affected by an extremely powerful and scary ghost. In fact, everyone goes out of his or her way to avoid going near Marwick house or even discussing it.


I liked how the bits and pieces of both Anna and the ghost’s past slowly came together and snapped together, like the pieces of a puzzle. The plot, characterizations, and attention to detail were well executed and believable, and the original (and creepy) twists of the story kept me turning the page. The sign of a good book is when I find myself thinking about the story days after having read it, which was the case with The House Next Door.


My only niggle with the book was I did find it dragged in places, but it picked​ up as we headed toward the climactic ending. All in all, an engaging read, especially if you’re a fan of ghost stories. Recommended!

I am surprised at how much I have enjoyed this book. I have read quite a few of Darcy Coates books. I have enjoyed some, been disappointed in a few (though they were enjoyable enough to help me pass through a few boring days) so I wasn't sure if this book was going to be a fun read or not. I went strictly by the reviews this time to help me make up my mind about borrowing from my Kindle Unlimited membership. I like the "haunted house" genre of books but rarely are they truly an old fashion ghost story. This one was a ghost story and it was a ghost who was interesting as an actual character in the book. It has enough twists with one unexpected twist near the end that kept me turning each page (and a couple times had me flipping back to re-read several sections to prolong my reading experience) until I had read past my normal bedtime and I wasn't even aware of what time it REALLY was! I finished this Book in one sitting and was disappointed that I had come to the end. I can truthfully say that this Book is my favorite (as of today, that is) by this Author and I would recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a good ghost story.

Jo has lived next door to Marwick house for about four years or so, watching families move in, stay a few months and take off in the middle of the night after a few gunshots. When Anna moves in, things are a little different, being that she’s got something in common with Jo, such as: single, white and female. After knowing each other a only few days, Anna asks if it ok to use Jo’s address for a business listing, not giving much of a reason, Jo says it’s fine. When some tough guy shows up at Jo’s place somewhat rudely asking for Anna, she blows him off and slams the door in his face but immediately runs next door, telling Anna that this guy just showed up looking for her. So Jo says, “Don’t worry, I’ll stay work you...you shouldn’t be alone tonight.” So they’re sleeping in the living room when things start happening...

I won’t go any further because of giving up the story. However, I really enjoyed this book! It was different than any of the other ‘haunted’ books I’ve read, that’re so repetitive, story wise. The characters were believable, the plot was great, I highly recommend this book...aside from a few errors I failed to point out and send in but who’s counting?

For me, this one was just okay. The two women had a nice chemistry together, even to the point that I felt they'd be a much better couple then the other romantic options were presented in the book. The romantic aspect just kind of came out of nowhere, and I didn't find it particularly believable. Also, there were a few moments that had me practically screaming from frustration. There's nothing more annoying than characters who make ridiculous, unrealistic decisions about their safety. I did enjoy aspects of the book, though, so I would recommend it for light reading.

Spoiler- seriously, how could it not even occur to either woman to contact the police when they were being attacked by the ex?

This was a decent haunted house story. It's difficult to write scary stories that are realistic yet keep the reader engaged and don't seem too hokey. The author made a good attempt at this. Just like watching a scary movie, there were moments when a character would do something that had me shaking my head and asking WHY, for goodness sake??? Some things did seem a little too contrived for my taste, but honestly, overall, it was enjoyable enough. It wasn't as scary as I'd hoped it would be, but it was interesting how the plot unfolded, and the ending was okay. It's not bad, but I'm honestly not sure that I'd deliberately seek to read another story by this author. Overall... Not bad.

A book that starts "I lived next door to a haunted house" has potential, and this book mostly lives up to that potential. It's a very good, spooky story. My only complaint, and it's not much of one, is that I didn't really get a sense of the Jo character. I had more of sense of Lukas, Anna, and even Raul than I did of the supposed main character. As I say though, it's not too bad, and you know enough to get on with the story.

I have been a fan of Darcy Coates for a while now and her books never disappoint. She blends a creepy, good story with well written characters, and throws in a fast paced, twisting plot that keeps building right up to the end! The characters of Jo and Anna each have issues from their past that provides an extra layer to the haunted house story. I really can't wait to see what Darcy Coates will write next!

Another great book provided by my kindle unlimited subscription.

Her best book I've read (so far). Fans of psychological horror will get a kick out of this feminist ghost story that plays out kind of like if Shirley Jackson wrote Diabolique, though even that is a bit reductive. House Next Store represents a step forward for Darcy Coates, her hallmark gothic thrills are here but it also plumbs a depths of unexpected psychological suspense, analyzing our own fears and mistrust in a way that makes us question our own sanity and the reasons we wrap ourselves in our own prejudices. I would reccomend this book above any of her others so far and that's saying a lot as I loved the Folcroft, Blackwood and Carrow books as well.

The beginning took a bit longer to get through than I thought, but once I was 10% into it, I couldn't put this book down.
Jo lives in her mothers old house, which is next door to a haunted house. When a new owner moves in, Jo decides to meet her and get involved with the house and the neighbor.
Crazy stuff happens, they both see the ghost, and try to get rid of it.
Darcy writes wonderful ghost stories. I will read all her books.

I've read almost 4 of Ms. Coates books, and I liked this one the best. The first one was The Haunting of Ashburn House, which I found long, tedious and boring. Not really scary at all. I wasn't planning on reading another one of her books, but decided to pick up The House Next Door. I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would. The main character befriends her neighbor who just moved into the haunted house next door. Her neighbor likes to repaint/refurbish old dolls and sell them online. I chuckled a little at that because I enjoy doing the same. Anywho, the other two books I read were The Haunting of Gillespie House and The Haunting of Blackwood House, though I'm only halfway through that one. I thought Ashburn, Gillespie and Blackwood were very similar as in some chick ends up living in an old house and then the doors starts to slam, they hear footsteps ... you know, same ole same ole.

I had only read one Darcy Coates book before this one so I wasn’t too sure what to expect but this one was different. It was still pretty good. This time we had a little more back story on our main characters than Darcy gave us in Craven Manor but not too much. We didn’t get bogged down. There’s just a sliver of humor which is always necessary in a ghost story to relieve the tension. Jo and Anna made for a fun pair to follow thru their horror adventure.

I wanted to start October off with a ghost story, haunted house. Umm look at the title. Boom. Usually I'm a bit disappointed with the plot, not this time. The author was wise to keep the cast of characters small so the reader could focus on the house and ghost and the lives of the two women it affects. It was a good, creepy read. Let October commence!

As I started reading this book it seemed familiar like I had read it before. I had not read it before, but I have read one similar. I had hopes for this book & it was ok. There were parts that made me think it was going to start getting good but...…

I thought this was a great book. It really held my attention while I read it over the weekend. Definitely spooky at times but I love that in a book. I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for something great to read.

Believable characters accompanied by a page-turning plot! Darcy Coates has yet to disappoint me! I finished this in two days, as I do most of her books. If you're looking for a good ghost story without a lot of gore, this book is for you.

Very disappointed. I read other books by this author that I enjoyed but this one was dull
and boring. It was something that never picked up and the main character had no personality or depth. The climax was unrealistic and dumb. Very bad..

This book, as all of Darcy's books do, hooked me from the start and made me slack off from doing things I needed to do in favor of devouring this book. It's not my absolute favorite of her books but it definitely didn't disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed it, beginning to end.

Darcy Coates' book 'The House Next Door' presents itself as a typical haunted house story, but as the subtitle suggests it is more personal than that; it is a ghost story. The novel kept me enthralled, jumping to the next page as soon as I'd finished one I was reading. I had never heard anything about this book or its writer, so this was a very pleasant surprise. The characters were very empathetic, the dread grew more palpable as the story progressed, and the unexpected twists were extremely well-done. I'd highly recommend giving it a shot, it will surprise you.

Another excellent read. Very enjoyable from start to finish. Keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering what's going to happen next. Creepy, gives you chills and makes you wonder about this cold spots you tend to find yourself in and wonder if your own place isn't haunted. Loved the twist toward the end. Would have never guessed.

Have you ever wanted to visit a haunted house? Read The House Next Door and let Darcy Coates take you on a sinister twisting journey through this evil house. Its a page turner! Connect with Darcy through to your imagination and let the ghosts haunt your dteams!

You never really understand why the ghost is so unhappy until the last few days and then all the pieces of the puzzle start to come into focus. If you love a little bit if romance, with a huge amount of mystery and throw in a tormented ghost then you will love this book as much as I did!!!!!

Another breath stealer from the queen of the cozy horror. Buy the book. Coates never disappoints and her command of different horror genres is astounding. She writes something for everyone. If you like a good ghost story with a subtle touch of romance, this is your book!

An amazing, creepy read. I loved it! This book is so well written. Ms. Coates builds suspense with well developed characters, spooky details, and a plot twist that is a real surprise. I can’t wait to read more of her books.

I have loved each and every Darcy Coates book, and luckily, there are many to choose from. This is just the style of ghost story I enjoy, and each one has kept me reading way past when I should stop. Great writing!!

I don't bother reading the titles anymore, when I see this authors name I know it gonna be a good spooky book. Don't worry, it won't give you nightmares, but it might keep you awake at night.... reading!

This book had my interest since the first page. I like haunted house stories although I really don't believe in ghosts. I am still intrigued by them. This book is about Anna who moves into Marwick house. It has all the things that you would expect from a haunted house. Very good book indeed.

Enjoyed this book! Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you will like how this story puts that suspenseful curiosity in your head. Always a two story house with a basement to creep you out. Enjoyed reading another great book by Darcy Coates.

I liked this book. A house with a ghost, great! I wasn't disappointed. The storyline was good, the writing also. I'd say well worth the time and effort to read. I've read Darcy Coates before and have enjoyed her books so far. Yes, I'd recommend it to anyone who likes ghost stories. I gave it four stars.

This was my first book by this author and it won't be my last! It was an easy, action packed read and I finished it in one sitting. I'm the type of reader to choose a book based on how thick it is, and although I would have loved if this were a little longer, it was a nice break from some of the lengthy, heavier books I usually gravitate to.

I have read a coupe of Darcy Coates books & have like them all so far. But this one may be my favorite so far. Really loved the story line and the mystery and intrigue throughout the book. This is not your typical haunted house story. You will not be disappointed!!

It is a horror story with a house as the main character but there are other things much scarier when you keep reading. It was very entertaining, like watching a horror movie. Keeps you at the edge of your seat. Love this author's books. This was the first book i read of this author and kept me wanting to read more.

I'm always pleased to enjoy a new Darcy Coates novel, and this chilling tale was no exception. Although the character of Jo felt vastly underdeveloped, the Anna character charmed me because I'm a doll custom artist too!
Pleasantly creepy; a fast read but a good one.

I haven't read a good ghost story in years. This one was great! I read it in a weekend because I couldn't hardly put it down. Well, I had to for things like sleep and meals. It had me interested in the first chapter, the first page actually. Loved it!

Loved the story! It grabbed my attention and held it to the end. Would have given 5 stars, but editing errors distract the reader. Interesting characters. Would definitely recommend to those who enjoy a good haunted house story.

Very enthralling. This one actually held some twists. I enjoyed the rapid pace of the story, and was delighted that the plot was more intricate than done of the shorter stories I read by Ms. Coates. Recommend.

You never know what you're gonna get when you read one of Darcy's books, but you will never be disappointed! This story had me on edge, from the piano to the dolls to the windows and doors locking. Great smooth read!

This is my 3rd book from this author that I have read and I've liked all of them! I recommend this book! There is a bit of a twist I did not expect and it is exciting enough to keep you wanting to read more.

Love the book. Great plot line. Kept me glued to the story. The pacing and progression of the relationship between Jo & Anna was also wonderfully written. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in looking for more than the regular YA urban fantasy books!

I like this novel better than Rookward :) .. It's not that scary but it has a very good plot and ending. I finished reading this book within 3 days. I went to work and did some other stuffs but finished it within a week.