The Whispering House by Elizabeth Brooks is a compelling novel about a girl finding out about the past of her sister, Stella, who died five years prior. The main character, Freya Lyell, tries to move on from her sister Stella’s death by visiting the bewitching Byrne Hall, which ends up being close to the place where she died. Freya found that Byrne Hall is a luxurious mansion, but it is filled with secrets. She discovers a man named Cory, and finds a portrait of Stella in the house. This compels Freya to learn more, and as she gets more involved in Byrne Hall, she becomes more trapped.
This book is a mystery about sisterhood, love, and betrayal. It is a pretty quick read, and keeps the reader invested. My favorite part of the book was the ending, and it’s overall a good read that switches between the perspectives of Stella in 2009 and Freya in 2014. You never know what will happen with the storyline, and Brooks masterfully writes the characters so that you never know who’s telling the truth.
The Whispering House is one of many mystery books that are highly recommended for high school students. Mystery books include problem solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail, which is why they’re so beneficial to teens.
If you are looking for a mix between mystery, romance, and realistic fiction, this novel is for you!
