This is what I love about historical fiction – you can get pulled right into that time period. The maids refuse to go near the doll because they are terrified of it and it’s wandering eyes.įirst of all, Purcell does an incredible job setting the scene and creating such an atmospheric novel. She discovers a locked door that contains a silent companion – a painted wooden figure that has a striking resemblance to Elsie. With an older estate you almost expect there to be creaks and sounds, but Elsie begins to hear hissing sounds throughout the house. With the house servants resenting her and the local villagers against her, Elsie finds her only company in Rupert’s cousin.Īs if all the tension in the house isn’t stressful enough, Elsie is also having to finish out her pregnancy alone.

Tragedy strikes just weeks after their marriage, when Rupert dies Elsie finds her world turning upside down. Who doesn’t love a good haunted house story? If you’ve followed my blog or reviews for awhile then you’ll know that I also have a soft spot for historical fiction, so when you combine these two genres then I have to have it! THE SILENT COMPANIONS by Laura Purcell was just the right amount of eerie to remind you why dolls are so creepy.Įlsie married Rupert Bainbridge, a handsome young man that could lead her to a life of luxury. THE SILENT COMPANIONS – Laura Purcell (out now!)Īny other historical fiction fans out there that like a good ghost story? Thanks to Penguin Books for the copy in exchange for my honest review. Happy belated release day to this Gothic haunted house story!

Laura purcell the poison thread