The House of Echoes by Alexandra Walsh
Genres: Historical Fiction
‘The Brandon blood is dark with lies and treachery and as it flows through my heart, my vow is this: they will all pay.’
Hampton Court Palace 1530s
Anne Brandon has always understood the power of a king’s patronage and, though the court of Henry VIII is a dangerous place for women, as the daughter of the king’s best friend, Anne feels safer than most. But Anne’s husband Lord Powis is tiring of her childlessness and when Henry VIII begins plotting to rid himself of a queen in his quest for an heir, suddenly Anne’s life is in danger. And as whispers of the name of her friend Anne Boleyn get ever louder, there is peril in every loose word, every forbidden conversation.
Pembrokshire Present Day
Caroline Harvey has spent years helping her grandfather, the reclusive bestselling novelist Dexter Blake, hide from his legions of fans in his home on the Pembrokshire coast. After his death, the vultures begin to circle Dexter’s fortune. When Caroline’s ownership of the house she has inherited is called into question, her research into its history reveals it was once owned by Anne Brandon who had sought refuge there. Intrigued, Caroline is determined to discover why Anne fled the court of Henry VIII.
Two women divided by centuries but joined by secrets and courage. And when a twist in their histories threatens them both with the same fate – losing the man they love – their revenge will be the same too. Because there’s no one mightier than a woman underestimated or more powerful than the need to save those they love.
Bestseller Alexandra Walsh is back with a compelling, captivating insight into the Tudor court through the eyes of a woman who had only her guile to keep her alive. Perfect for all fans of Barbara Erskine, Philippa Gregory, Anne O’Brien and Elena Collins.
I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Review
The House of Echoes is a captivating dual-timeline novel that masterfully weaves the present with the past, taking readers from modern-day Pembrokeshire to the tumultuous Tudor era. Rich in historical detail, the story follows Caroline Harvey, who, after the death of her famous grandfather, uncovers a centuries-old connection to Anne Brandon—a woman who fled the court of Henry VIII with secrets of her own. As Caroline faces betrayal and challenges in the present, she begins to see eerie parallels between her life and Anne’s, both women struggling against the constraints of their time while fighting for love, truth, and justice.
With stunning atmospheric detail, gripping twists, and deeply compelling characters, The House of Echoes explores themes of resilience, revenge, and the enduring power of love. The historical thread is particularly immersive, showcasing the harsh realities women faced in Tudor England, while the modern timeline delivers intrigue and emotional depth. Both narratives converge in a way that highlights the strength of women across generations, making this novel a mesmerizing read that lingers long after the final page. A must-read for historical fiction lovers who enjoy rich storytelling, mystery, and a touch of romance.
Meet the Author
About Alexandra Walsh
Alexandra Walsh is the bestselling author of dual timeline historical mysteries, previously published by Sapere. Her books range from the fifteenth century to the Victorian era and are inspired by the hidden voices of women that have been lost over the centuries. Formerly a journalist, writing for national newspapers, magazines and TV, her first book for Boldwood will be published in Spring 2023.
interesting women
Sounds like a great book!
Sounds so good! Thanks for your review, Rita! 🙂
Great review. Lovely cover.