Review of 'The House of Echoes' by Alexandra Walsh

Review of 'The House of Echoes' by Alexandra Walsh

Release date: January 30th, 2025

Publisher: Boldwood Books

REVIEW

What a complex and mesmerising novel! I have to say this is now my favourite of Alexandra Walsh’s that I have read. The historical thread contains stunning detail of the Tudor Age – and it is accessible and deeply engaging. The modern time line was powerful as well, with a fascinating story that echoes the past and weaves familiar elements into its plot.

This captivating dual timeline takes us on a journey from the present to the distant past of the 1500s. The House of Echoes is a great title for this novel due to the history that lies within these walls and surrounding landscape that saw many changes and dramatic events over the centuries. It seems history ends up repeating itself in one form or another.

Dripping with mystery, atmosphere and conflict, the two plots from both timelines present some fascinating twists and turns and exceptional surprises. All the main characters are well developed and relatable in their challenges, plus it is easy to appreciate their hopes and dreams that are often in the line of fire.

The present timeline in Pembrokshire is led by Caroline Harvey who has invested years into helping her famous reclusive grandfather, Dexter Blake, with his ten book series. Upon his death and release of his last book, tongues start wagging and serious accusations fly. Jealous onlookers seek to gain from his fortune and Caroline’s ownership of house and land are challenged. As she begins digging into the property’s past for support, she uncovers a fascinating story. Anne Brandon once took refuge there. But why did she flee the court of Henry VIII? (Well, I think we can all think of at least one reason!). But as Caroline discovers, Anne’s story is not a simple or even a simple explanation. But what surprises Caroline is that she shares similar circumstances with this woman of the past. They both are parted from the men they love. And they both carry some difficult secrets that must be guarded. But when their lives and loves are threatened, they each take drastic measures. And the desire for revenge initially adds some fuel to their fervour. But although they make some mistakes as a result, their strengths will be revealed, too. And nothing will hold them back to set things right. They are both strong, intelligent women that wield the mighty sword of truth when given the chance.

The history of the Tudor period is led by Anne Brandon, a real person from the past, who demonstrates the difficulties that women endured. Loss of pregnancies often led to deaths of the women who could not carry their babies to term. Infertility and miscarriages were the heartbreak of many. Especially frightening when the men demanded heirs. And if these men could not get what they wanted, off went the woman’s head! (As seen in Henry VIII’s actions). Since divorce was not an option, death happened frequently. Plus the men carried on with numerous extramarital affairs—which exposed a double standard. Because this kind of activity was considered acceptable for men but practically treason if women took lovers!

There are some powerful lines in this novel. One that stands out is when the Duchess of Suffolk is giving Anne advice before her marriage to Edward, a man chosen by her father, who had a title. Anne did not love Edward but she submitted to her father’s request. Her heart was with Randall, an untitled though loyal, honest and loving person. Interestingly, Duchess reminds Anne before her arranged wedding not to despair. She says, ‘if your love is pure, eventually, it will find a way. True love is a powerful force and it can never be destroyed.’ She speaks from experience for she was once in a similar position. The Duchess makes it clear that if things do not work out with Edward, and if Randall and her are meant to be together, ‘then love will prevail.’ This line reappears in another form in the modern timeline for Caroline, too— thus providing a common theme on love that runs throughout past and present.

We also learn from the Duchess in the historical thread, that the most important allies Anne will have after her wedding in Powis Castle, are the women who tend to her. They must be loyal, when the husband is not. Which is why the Duchess takes such care in picking the best support team for her. It is true, women had no solace back then, except in each other, as the men had so much control over their lives. Women were blamed for everything: particularly ‘men’s woes.’

We learn a lot about in the conversations she has with others. One with Beatrice and Isabelle shows how much she loved intellectual debates. She was a smart woman. Her discussion about Adam and Eve in the garden is brilliant. It raises the question that if men are more superior to women, why did Adam fail to protect Eve from the serpent; try to reason with her and resist. He just gave in without questioning anything. It seems this thought is repeated many times in the Tudor thread: men constantly failing to protect and respect the women in their care.

Although I have focused more on the historical thread in this review, I still loved the modern timeline but do not want to give anything away by saying too much as there are many plot twists and surprises in this thread. Caroline is a very strong woman like Anne and her conversations are equally enlightening.

Yes, this is a story about revenge. And those who seek it, find that the end result is not so sweet after all. For pursuit of it can bring great loss and disappointment. I am happy to say, though, this is more a story about love and how it conquers all— especially when there is forgiveness. I was completely captivated by The House of Echoes. It is a brilliant dual timeline tale that works on so many levels. I loved it immensely and highly recommend this one for your 2025 must read list! And yes, there are two happy endings! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a review copy.