The Silk House

In The Silk House, historical intrigue intertwines with modern mystery as past and present converge in a captivating tale of women and their hidden secrets.

Set against the backdrop of the 17th century, The Silk House delves into the intricate and often perilous world of silk weaving, embroidery, and herbalism. The story follows Rowan Caswell, who leaves her village to work for an English silk merchant. As she navigates this new life, her skills in herbal healing draw unwanted attention, thrusting her into a dangerous realm where the lines between craft and witchcraft blur. This historical gothic novel vividly captures the tension and intrigue of a time when women were often silenced and their talents overlooked.

In parallel, we meet Mary-Louise Stephenson, a young woman with dreams of becoming a silk designer in an era that largely forbids such aspirations for women. Her creation of a fabric adorned with deadly flowers sets off a chain of events that will have far-reaching consequences for everyone connected to the Silk House. The narrative weaves together the personal struggles of these women with the broader societal constraints of their time, creating a rich tapestry of emotion and suspense.

Fast forward to the present day, where Thea Rust arrives at an exclusive boarding school, tasked with caring for the first cohort of girls. The school, housed in a converted 18th-century silk factory, holds its own secrets within the shadows of the Silk House. As Thea uncovers the mysteries of the past, the echoes of Rowan and Mary-Louise's stories resonate, revealing that some secrets refuse to stay buried.