THE HOUSE OF ASHES.

Stuart Neville.

No doubt that this piece described as ‘thriller, suspense, psychological fiction’ will provide some readers with all the drama they seek.  But once again I have chosen poorly.  I am disappointed to realise that the female characters are a group of women locked in a cellar, and are at the mercy of big boorish brothers. They are clearly used as the men want.  Cooks, servants, sexual objects. Tricked. Victims.  

I have watched too many thriller tv series and of late, and read too many horror mystery books. 

I will not wait to see if these women somehow overcome.  I won’t take visceral pleasure in their possible survival, or read descriptions of terrible abuse that surely awaits as one turns the page.

I am disappointed that, endlessly, women under male bondage are a favourite feature for crime writers.          

And the readers.  

Are they to be rescued?

I will read no more.  Return to library.