What do you think?
Rate this book
The Bliss House
Two young men bringing up a small child in the middle of nowhere. Everything could be fine, but strangers start to meddle.
For near a century the reclusive Bliss clan farmed the same land. Now it’s 1963 and everyone’s gone except teenage Cam, his older cousin Wes, and little Dorie. They buried Gran over a year ago. But Gramp is still with them, wrapped tight as a mummy in an old tarp in the cold room off the kitchen. Life’s better now without the old man’s rants and terrors.
There are problems with the land lease and the meddlesome, moralizing neighbours, and rumours are spreading in town that there’s something not quite right about Cam and Wes, but they’re taking care of it all as best they can. Then the local Children’s Aid drops by to say Dorie needs schooling and proper parents, and it’s clear they can’t hide their secrets any longer. They’re on the road, heading north, with a body in the trunk. Wes knows a place, a cabin deep in the woods …
No matter what they do, gruesome casualties seem to follow them. It could be funny if it wasn’t so nightmarish. And through it all, a tender secret love thrives, as they try to hold on to the family they’ve built together.
A RARE MACHINES BOOK
For near a century the reclusive Bliss clan farmed the same land. Now it’s 1963 and everyone’s gone except teenage Cam, his older cousin Wes, and little Dorie. They buried Gran over a year ago. But Gramp is still with them, wrapped tight as a mummy in an old tarp in the cold room off the kitchen. Life’s better now without the old man’s rants and terrors.
There are problems with the land lease and the meddlesome, moralizing neighbours, and rumours are spreading in town that there’s something not quite right about Cam and Wes, but they’re taking care of it all as best they can. Then the local Children’s Aid drops by to say Dorie needs schooling and proper parents, and it’s clear they can’t hide their secrets any longer. They’re on the road, heading north, with a body in the trunk. Wes knows a place, a cabin deep in the woods …
No matter what they do, gruesome casualties seem to follow them. It could be funny if it wasn’t so nightmarish. And through it all, a tender secret love thrives, as they try to hold on to the family they’ve built together.
A RARE MACHINES BOOK
248 pages, Paperback
Published September 5, 2023
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 19, 2023
“the bliss house” is a novel about poor people in rural ontario. the synopsis sounds absolutely amazing promising dark humor, a gothic setting, and a gay romance.
unfortunately it does not deliver. the prose is choppy, the dialogue stunted, and i felt that the plot essentially went nowhere and was not believable. in what way is a murder spree a response to the death of a grandfather? no one thought to call the coroner? it’s very far fetched. the pedophilia aspect was out of place and only included for shock value. the setting is not gothic in any way, it’s a rural novel.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
unfortunately it does not deliver. the prose is choppy, the dialogue stunted, and i felt that the plot essentially went nowhere and was not believable. in what way is a murder spree a response to the death of a grandfather? no one thought to call the coroner? it’s very far fetched. the pedophilia aspect was out of place and only included for shock value. the setting is not gothic in any way, it’s a rural novel.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2023
Right at the top, it needs to be said that this novel is not what is described in the description, and even the title makes it seem more grandiose and sinister than it is. Hopefully the branding and marketing of this novel can pivot before the release date, because it is a great novel that deserves to be read, but if folk go in expecting the intrigue and whatnot that is suggested in the description they will feel let down. I had read some early reviews before I began the story, and so I had an open mind and no expectations, and was incredibly surprised.
The Bliss House offers a quiet, subdued queer love story set in the backdrop of a Coen brothers’ movie. The story is about simple, humble folks who aren’t trying to shake things up, they just want to live peaceful, quiet lives. But they aren’t equipped with the right tools to do that, especially when it comes to raising a young girl, and absurd violence constantly interrupts their attempts at serenity. The story doesn’t have a strong plot, per se. Things happen, the characters react, and then more things happen as a result. But it isn’t rambling, instead the story is tight and enclosed, really showing how a whole world can exist in just three people, and all the challenges that can bring. This all feels right, though, it fits together with the isolated life of an expansive, lonely farm or a cabin in the woods. The writing is tight, moving between three different points of views with a fluidity and ease that feels practiced and confident. It lets us understand the characters more, letting them feel distinct and genuine, especially as we see the trauma of the narrative’s events and the weariness that comes from their experiences affect them all differently. It’s worth mentioning that the chapters from the perspective of the five-year-old girl, which are relatively few and far between, don’t feel gimmicky or hackneyed, which can happen when narrating from the perspective of young children.
This story has strong writing and engaging characters, and it really compels you to care about these characters and their journeys. It was relatively short, but it felt complete, for the story that it was telling, and it was paced in such a way that I didn’t want to put it down once I started. It wasn’t filled with cliff-hanger chapter endings or any sort of thriller-esque intrigue, just a genuine concern for characters that are doing their best in a world that doesn’t seem like it wants them to succeed. There is a sparsity to the writing, often feeling like there is a little left unsaid, but that all feels right given the emotional vulnerability of the characters and the closed-minded attitude of the time and place of the story. There were times I wanted a little more, leaning into the relationships a little more, to not just how they felt about each other in any given moment about how they wanted to feel about each other, where and how they saw each other in a bigger picture, because a lot of that was kept inside the characters, we only were given glimpses. However, as I thought more about the story I appreciated this approach, because it left more empty space for me to wonder and think about these characters, about what they wished for their lives, and it kept them removed a bit, which felt like the right tonal decision for this novel.
I want to thank the author, the publisher, Dundurn Press, Rare Machines, and NetGalley, who provided a complimentary eARC for review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Bliss House offers a quiet, subdued queer love story set in the backdrop of a Coen brothers’ movie. The story is about simple, humble folks who aren’t trying to shake things up, they just want to live peaceful, quiet lives. But they aren’t equipped with the right tools to do that, especially when it comes to raising a young girl, and absurd violence constantly interrupts their attempts at serenity. The story doesn’t have a strong plot, per se. Things happen, the characters react, and then more things happen as a result. But it isn’t rambling, instead the story is tight and enclosed, really showing how a whole world can exist in just three people, and all the challenges that can bring. This all feels right, though, it fits together with the isolated life of an expansive, lonely farm or a cabin in the woods. The writing is tight, moving between three different points of views with a fluidity and ease that feels practiced and confident. It lets us understand the characters more, letting them feel distinct and genuine, especially as we see the trauma of the narrative’s events and the weariness that comes from their experiences affect them all differently. It’s worth mentioning that the chapters from the perspective of the five-year-old girl, which are relatively few and far between, don’t feel gimmicky or hackneyed, which can happen when narrating from the perspective of young children.
This story has strong writing and engaging characters, and it really compels you to care about these characters and their journeys. It was relatively short, but it felt complete, for the story that it was telling, and it was paced in such a way that I didn’t want to put it down once I started. It wasn’t filled with cliff-hanger chapter endings or any sort of thriller-esque intrigue, just a genuine concern for characters that are doing their best in a world that doesn’t seem like it wants them to succeed. There is a sparsity to the writing, often feeling like there is a little left unsaid, but that all feels right given the emotional vulnerability of the characters and the closed-minded attitude of the time and place of the story. There were times I wanted a little more, leaning into the relationships a little more, to not just how they felt about each other in any given moment about how they wanted to feel about each other, where and how they saw each other in a bigger picture, because a lot of that was kept inside the characters, we only were given glimpses. However, as I thought more about the story I appreciated this approach, because it left more empty space for me to wonder and think about these characters, about what they wished for their lives, and it kept them removed a bit, which felt like the right tonal decision for this novel.
I want to thank the author, the publisher, Dundurn Press, Rare Machines, and NetGalley, who provided a complimentary eARC for review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 24, 2023
I was really looking forward to reading this book, based on the synopsis and "key selling points" listed after the cover.
But ...
Where is the black humour?
Where are the misfits?
Where is the gothic setting?
Where is the gay love story?
Where are the "two" young men? (Only one by my count ...)
This all just felt like small town Canada to me. The characters were pitiable. There was no creeping horror, no looming darkness. Just a bunch of sad, uneducated people trying to live their lives.
I also didn't get the set up. The old man dies, So what? Call a hearse. I really can't understand (and this is not a spoiler; it's the premise of the story) why Cam and Wes react as if they've killed the guy and have to cover it up.
Nothing really made sense to me. The only thing I appreciated was the Canadian backdrop.
Thank you to Dundurn Press, Rare Machines, and NetGalley for the advance copy.
But ...
Where is the black humour?
Where are the misfits?
Where is the gothic setting?
Where is the gay love story?
Where are the "two" young men? (Only one by my count ...)
This all just felt like small town Canada to me. The characters were pitiable. There was no creeping horror, no looming darkness. Just a bunch of sad, uneducated people trying to live their lives.
I also didn't get the set up. The old man dies, So what? Call a hearse. I really can't understand (and this is not a spoiler; it's the premise of the story) why Cam and Wes react as if they've killed the guy and have to cover it up.
Nothing really made sense to me. The only thing I appreciated was the Canadian backdrop.
Thank you to Dundurn Press, Rare Machines, and NetGalley for the advance copy.
January 1, 2023
Such a fun and entertaining read, full of adventure, murder, and rural Ontario scenery.
April 23, 2023
A hard one to rate because of it’s dark content - but I did read through it in two days so it’s definitely a page turner.
The darkness is intriguing and keeps you hooked despite being very uncomfortable throughout.
I enjoyed the writing style, I thought it gave great perspective to the characters and what their inner thoughts would be like.
Ultimately I would absolutely recommend it anyone who is okay with darker content. It certainly won’t be for everyone but I thought it was written very well
The only small negative for me is that I wish there was more closure at the end. I personally would have liked more from Dorie to hear how her trauma has effected her as an adult.
The darkness is intriguing and keeps you hooked despite being very uncomfortable throughout.
I enjoyed the writing style, I thought it gave great perspective to the characters and what their inner thoughts would be like.
Ultimately I would absolutely recommend it anyone who is okay with darker content. It certainly won’t be for everyone but I thought it was written very well
The only small negative for me is that I wish there was more closure at the end. I personally would have liked more from Dorie to hear how her trauma has effected her as an adult.
February 7, 2024
4 / 5
Reading The Bliss House by Jim Bartley was such a unique experience. It felt like a queer Bonnie & Clyde, with an eccentric little girl tagging along for the ride. I don't want to call this a romance, but I sorta rooted for them, as questionable as that may make me. Oh well!
The story takes place in rural Ontario in the '60s, the story and dialogue feeling true to its time. The main characters make up a dysfunctional family: a mean drunk grandfather ('Gramps'), a hardworking Wes, a bookworm Cam, and a strange little girl called Dorie. When Gramps drinks himself into his grave, Wes and Cam realize that their little family won't make it if news gets out about it his death. They make the decision to hide his body and continue receiving his income, ensuring little Dorie doesn't get taken off to foster care.
The story takes its time to build, but once it gets going, the twists get darker and darker. People come sniffing around the Bliss house, and the boys have to go to more extreme lengths to preserve their little home in a world that doesn't understand them. Yes, even though it's a little incesty - IT WAS SWEET. The 60s were wild.
I do think the writing took me a while to get used to, and for the first 15%-20% of the book, the possibility of a DNF did enter my mind. I’m glad I stuck with it - but I’m not sure that I’d widely recommend this one. It’s a peculiar, niche sort of story with lots of questionable aspects that I think could bother people, and skimming some other reviews I think it already landed in some wrong hands. I enjoyed it though!
Thank you to NetGalley, Jim Bartley, and Dundurn Press for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Reading The Bliss House by Jim Bartley was such a unique experience. It felt like a queer Bonnie & Clyde, with an eccentric little girl tagging along for the ride. I don't want to call this a romance, but I sorta rooted for them, as questionable as that may make me. Oh well!
The story takes place in rural Ontario in the '60s, the story and dialogue feeling true to its time. The main characters make up a dysfunctional family: a mean drunk grandfather ('Gramps'), a hardworking Wes, a bookworm Cam, and a strange little girl called Dorie. When Gramps drinks himself into his grave, Wes and Cam realize that their little family won't make it if news gets out about it his death. They make the decision to hide his body and continue receiving his income, ensuring little Dorie doesn't get taken off to foster care.
The story takes its time to build, but once it gets going, the twists get darker and darker. People come sniffing around the Bliss house, and the boys have to go to more extreme lengths to preserve their little home in a world that doesn't understand them. Yes, even though it's a little incesty - IT WAS SWEET. The 60s were wild.
I do think the writing took me a while to get used to, and for the first 15%-20% of the book, the possibility of a DNF did enter my mind. I’m glad I stuck with it - but I’m not sure that I’d widely recommend this one. It’s a peculiar, niche sort of story with lots of questionable aspects that I think could bother people, and skimming some other reviews I think it already landed in some wrong hands. I enjoyed it though!
Thank you to NetGalley, Jim Bartley, and Dundurn Press for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 6, 2023
I really don't know what to say. It's dark, it's uncomfortable, and I'm not sure what I was supposed to take away from this experience. The characters were hard to like, yet I have nothing but sympathy for the situations they found themselves in and how everything snowballed.
February 16, 2023
Great read
December 2, 2023
It’s about the Bliss family and other unrelated folk. Living in the Bliss house on Bliss farmland. Life is not blissful. The people are not full of bliss. They are a dysfunctional isolated bunch and when Gramps passes away probably from rage, anger and drink, well, they don’t want anyone to know as they are collecting money from the farm
Land lease, bank, etc. so what to do? Roll up
gramps in a tarp and put him in the cold room. Until they figure out what to do next, in no particular hurry. Why doesn’t everyone mind their own business so these three can live quietly on their land, no questions asked. Don’t come on the property. Don’t call us! Just stay away!
There is also a little girl in this household, Dorrie, who is rather wild, uneducated, likes to run around and play without her pants/clothes on. Her main meal item are Cheezies. Well, I won’t go on further except to say things don’t get better, it gets worse, twisted and brutal. You can run but you can’t hide from the eyes of the outside world.
If you are looking for something blissful, this certainly is not it.
Land lease, bank, etc. so what to do? Roll up
gramps in a tarp and put him in the cold room. Until they figure out what to do next, in no particular hurry. Why doesn’t everyone mind their own business so these three can live quietly on their land, no questions asked. Don’t come on the property. Don’t call us! Just stay away!
There is also a little girl in this household, Dorrie, who is rather wild, uneducated, likes to run around and play without her pants/clothes on. Her main meal item are Cheezies. Well, I won’t go on further except to say things don’t get better, it gets worse, twisted and brutal. You can run but you can’t hide from the eyes of the outside world.
If you are looking for something blissful, this certainly is not it.
July 1, 2023
This is a tough one to review. It's got me thinking a lot and not in a very cohesive manner, and I fear my review would reflect that, but I'll try.
I'm the type to gush about what I loved about a book first and then list the criticisms I had after, but in this case I really need to get the cons out for some reason, like a purge, of sorts, to get it out of my system.
First of all, it's pretty boring. Up until the last quarter. That's the biggest challenge I faced as I tried to consume this, uh, quirky little piece of literature. It's a mix of the '60s rural setting (the author mentioned in the foreword that its a "love letter to landscape", which I suppose fits, except that I find it boring as hell. If you grew up in a rural place, perhaps you might relate to it better, I do hope), and the fact that the grisly events failed to inspire any sort of engaging emotion like sympathy or heartbreak, and instead just makes me feel a vague sense of disappointment.
And it goes on. Three quarters. The DNFs I see are totally valid; I nearly did too, thinking whether I should just cut my losses. But I made it through and the good news is that's the worst of it. Yeah I know it's not high praise but I think its relative, let me try to get into that.
The romance was just barely. By loose interpretation and my liberal imagination I could accept that, and even come enjoy it, but other readers, maybe coming from typical M/M romance books, can stop right here, for everyone's sake. 💀😂
It reads a lot like those mandatory books they make you read in school, which explains why I found it boring as I always did even back then. But supposedly there's always some kind of takeaway from it, some kind of point amidst all the questionable happenings, because obviously they picked it for a reason, right??
Now I might be rambling at this point but, if you do want to give this book a chance, there's a way to make it palatable. In the words of Fleabag, "Claire it'sFRENCHliterary fiction🤩🤩"
https://youtu.be/4aCqLqlAuTo
I hope that puts things into perspective. Now I hope I don't get dragged but from the few I've read, they're always universally off-putting, I'm sorry. Like the mood is always depressing-adjacent, or whatever. The Bliss House is very depressing-adjacent. It is what it is. Most of them don't even end well, honestly, which is a redeeming factor in this book because THANK GOD the author had the decency to give us a happy (relative, of course) ending after all thatbullshit ahem shenanigans🤪🤪🤪 that had to be endured.
Now, why the Four Whole Stars?? Even after all the, by all accounts, negative feelings I have about this book?? Is a good ending alone enough to justify a dreary ass first 75-80%? Perhaps so, because I kinda did end up enjoying it inexplicably. Maybe I was just let down so bad that I grasped at the straws, maybe its the Stockholm syndrome from being trapped by trying to get through the worst of it.
You know those abstract art pieces in galleries? On the surface they tend to look kinda contentious, perhaps questionable as well. You obviously don't have to like it, but the idea is that it sparks thought, and triggers people to TALK about it. So by inductive reasoning, this book is art. For better or worse. This is the best I can explain it, because my thoughts are still all over the place, and perhaps with time the story would sink in better, hence the generous rating.
I'm sure all of us have read books that were really and consistently good , only to have a really lackluster ending, right? That's a feeling that no one likes, and usually would take away from the positive feelings one might have had before it got to there, which sours the overall experience after reading it. I'm just grateful that it's the other way around here.
So, in conclusion. I may not have LOVED the book as a story, it DID get me into my thoughts, and have me try to reason it out. It doesn't happen often, I usually pick up a book and either like it or meh and move on, so this one stands out to me. Plus, a good ending really rounds it up, which is why I'm going to still look out for this author's works.
I don't know if im particularly thankful for getting this ARC, but I definitely appreciate the opportunity to have read this.
I'm the type to gush about what I loved about a book first and then list the criticisms I had after, but in this case I really need to get the cons out for some reason, like a purge, of sorts, to get it out of my system.
First of all, it's pretty boring. Up until the last quarter. That's the biggest challenge I faced as I tried to consume this, uh, quirky little piece of literature. It's a mix of the '60s rural setting (the author mentioned in the foreword that its a "love letter to landscape", which I suppose fits, except that I find it boring as hell. If you grew up in a rural place, perhaps you might relate to it better, I do hope), and the fact that the grisly events failed to inspire any sort of engaging emotion like sympathy or heartbreak, and instead just makes me feel a vague sense of disappointment.
And it goes on. Three quarters. The DNFs I see are totally valid; I nearly did too, thinking whether I should just cut my losses. But I made it through and the good news is that's the worst of it. Yeah I know it's not high praise but I think its relative, let me try to get into that.
The romance was just barely. By loose interpretation and my liberal imagination I could accept that, and even come enjoy it, but other readers, maybe coming from typical M/M romance books, can stop right here, for everyone's sake. 💀😂
It reads a lot like those mandatory books they make you read in school, which explains why I found it boring as I always did even back then. But supposedly there's always some kind of takeaway from it, some kind of point amidst all the questionable happenings, because obviously they picked it for a reason, right??
Now I might be rambling at this point but, if you do want to give this book a chance, there's a way to make it palatable. In the words of Fleabag, "Claire it's
https://youtu.be/4aCqLqlAuTo
I hope that puts things into perspective. Now I hope I don't get dragged but from the few I've read, they're always universally off-putting, I'm sorry. Like the mood is always depressing-adjacent, or whatever. The Bliss House is very depressing-adjacent. It is what it is. Most of them don't even end well, honestly, which is a redeeming factor in this book because THANK GOD the author had the decency to give us a happy (relative, of course) ending after all that
Now, why the Four Whole Stars?? Even after all the, by all accounts, negative feelings I have about this book?? Is a good ending alone enough to justify a dreary ass first 75-80%? Perhaps so, because I kinda did end up enjoying it inexplicably. Maybe I was just let down so bad that I grasped at the straws, maybe its the Stockholm syndrome from being trapped by trying to get through the worst of it.
You know those abstract art pieces in galleries? On the surface they tend to look kinda contentious, perhaps questionable as well. You obviously don't have to like it, but the idea is that it sparks thought, and triggers people to TALK about it. So by inductive reasoning, this book is art. For better or worse. This is the best I can explain it, because my thoughts are still all over the place, and perhaps with time the story would sink in better, hence the generous rating.
I'm sure all of us have read books that were really and consistently good , only to have a really lackluster ending, right? That's a feeling that no one likes, and usually would take away from the positive feelings one might have had before it got to there, which sours the overall experience after reading it. I'm just grateful that it's the other way around here.
So, in conclusion. I may not have LOVED the book as a story, it DID get me into my thoughts, and have me try to reason it out. It doesn't happen often, I usually pick up a book and either like it or meh and move on, so this one stands out to me. Plus, a good ending really rounds it up, which is why I'm going to still look out for this author's works.
I don't know if im particularly thankful for getting this ARC, but I definitely appreciate the opportunity to have read this.
August 3, 2023
Prepare to be captivated by Jim Bartley's masterful storytelling in "The Bliss House." Set against the backdrop of a reclusive farming clan and a chilling secret, this novel weaves a mesmerizing tale of love, scandal, and the haunting mysteries that shroud its characters.
In the heart of nowhere, two young men, Cam and Wes, find themselves raising little Dorie, the last remnants of the once-flourishing Bliss clan. With the old family members gone, the trio leads a life of solitude, battling moralizing neighbors and land lease troubles. Secrets lurk beneath the surface, but Cam and Wes manage to hold the pieces together, even with Gramp's mummified remains hidden in the cold room.
The year is 1963, and as rumors spread about the duo, the tension escalates. But it's the arrival of the local Children's Aid that sets their world into a tailspin. With Dorie's future hanging in the balance, Cam and Wes hit the road, fleeing northward with a shocking secret hidden in the trunk of their car.
As the pages turn, a trail of gruesome casualties follows their every move, creating a nightmarish aura around the story. Despite the darkness that haunts them, an endearing and tender love blossoms between Cam and Wes, binding them together amidst the chaos.
Bartley's writing dives deep into the human psyche, deftly unraveling the complexities of the human heart. The characters come alive, their struggles and emotions evoking empathy and fascination. The story keeps readers on the edge of their seats, unable to tear their eyes away from the web of secrets that ensnares Cam and Wes.
The mysterious cabin in the woods becomes a sanctuary, shrouded in enigma and providing refuge for the unconventional family. Bartley's narrative is skillfully paced, drawing readers into a world of dark secrets and unexpected twists that leave them breathless.
"The Bliss House" is scandalous, scandalous in the most alluring way possible. The shocking revelations, unexpected alliances, and the sheer intensity of emotions make it a consuming read that leaves readers yearning for more. As the tender love between Cam and Wes battles against the forces that threaten to tear them apart, their devotion becomes a beacon of light in the midst of the gripping darkness.
"The Bliss House" is a riveting and captivating masterpiece that investigates the human psyche while weaving a story of love, secrecy, and nightmarish events. Jim Bartley's talent shines as he creates a world that lingers in readers' minds long after the final page. This is a novel that will leave you spellbound and breathless.
"A spellbinding page-turner that keeps you guessing until the shocking final revelation."
"A haunting and atmospheric tale that will linger in your mind long after you've finished reading."
"An intriguing blend of mystery, romance, and family drama that will captivate a wide range of readers."
"Jim Bartley's storytelling prowess shines in this genre-defying masterpiece."
"Prepare to be swept away by the evocative setting and richly drawn characters."
"A thought-provoking and emotionally resonant journey that tugs at the heartstrings."
"With its gripping plot twists and secrets, 'The Bliss House' is a must-read for mystery enthusiasts."
"The novel's tender love story adds a poignant layer of emotion to the gripping suspense."
"A beautifully crafted narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships and identity."
"A riveting and scandalous saga that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end."
"Jim Bartley's writing transports readers to a bygone era, immersing them in the secluded world of the Bliss clan."
"An absorbing exploration of devotion, family bonds, and the consequences of hidden truths."
"The perfect book club pick with its thought-provoking themes and captivating discussions."
"Bartley's storytelling is both poetic and gripping, making 'The Bliss House' an unforgettable read."
"A genre-bending masterpiece that will appeal to fans of multiple literary genres."
"The novel's atmosphere and mysteries create an addictive reading experience that's hard to put down."
"A rollercoaster of emotions with unexpected twists that will leave you gasping for more."
"An enthralling tale that showcases the resilience of the human spirit amidst dark secrets."
"Jim Bartley's brilliant storytelling weaves elements of love, suspense, and mystery."
"The perfect blend of historical fiction and romantic mystery, 'The Bliss House' is a literary gem."
In the heart of nowhere, two young men, Cam and Wes, find themselves raising little Dorie, the last remnants of the once-flourishing Bliss clan. With the old family members gone, the trio leads a life of solitude, battling moralizing neighbors and land lease troubles. Secrets lurk beneath the surface, but Cam and Wes manage to hold the pieces together, even with Gramp's mummified remains hidden in the cold room.
The year is 1963, and as rumors spread about the duo, the tension escalates. But it's the arrival of the local Children's Aid that sets their world into a tailspin. With Dorie's future hanging in the balance, Cam and Wes hit the road, fleeing northward with a shocking secret hidden in the trunk of their car.
As the pages turn, a trail of gruesome casualties follows their every move, creating a nightmarish aura around the story. Despite the darkness that haunts them, an endearing and tender love blossoms between Cam and Wes, binding them together amidst the chaos.
Bartley's writing dives deep into the human psyche, deftly unraveling the complexities of the human heart. The characters come alive, their struggles and emotions evoking empathy and fascination. The story keeps readers on the edge of their seats, unable to tear their eyes away from the web of secrets that ensnares Cam and Wes.
The mysterious cabin in the woods becomes a sanctuary, shrouded in enigma and providing refuge for the unconventional family. Bartley's narrative is skillfully paced, drawing readers into a world of dark secrets and unexpected twists that leave them breathless.
"The Bliss House" is scandalous, scandalous in the most alluring way possible. The shocking revelations, unexpected alliances, and the sheer intensity of emotions make it a consuming read that leaves readers yearning for more. As the tender love between Cam and Wes battles against the forces that threaten to tear them apart, their devotion becomes a beacon of light in the midst of the gripping darkness.
"The Bliss House" is a riveting and captivating masterpiece that investigates the human psyche while weaving a story of love, secrecy, and nightmarish events. Jim Bartley's talent shines as he creates a world that lingers in readers' minds long after the final page. This is a novel that will leave you spellbound and breathless.
"A spellbinding page-turner that keeps you guessing until the shocking final revelation."
"A haunting and atmospheric tale that will linger in your mind long after you've finished reading."
"An intriguing blend of mystery, romance, and family drama that will captivate a wide range of readers."
"Jim Bartley's storytelling prowess shines in this genre-defying masterpiece."
"Prepare to be swept away by the evocative setting and richly drawn characters."
"A thought-provoking and emotionally resonant journey that tugs at the heartstrings."
"With its gripping plot twists and secrets, 'The Bliss House' is a must-read for mystery enthusiasts."
"The novel's tender love story adds a poignant layer of emotion to the gripping suspense."
"A beautifully crafted narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships and identity."
"A riveting and scandalous saga that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end."
"Jim Bartley's writing transports readers to a bygone era, immersing them in the secluded world of the Bliss clan."
"An absorbing exploration of devotion, family bonds, and the consequences of hidden truths."
"The perfect book club pick with its thought-provoking themes and captivating discussions."
"Bartley's storytelling is both poetic and gripping, making 'The Bliss House' an unforgettable read."
"A genre-bending masterpiece that will appeal to fans of multiple literary genres."
"The novel's atmosphere and mysteries create an addictive reading experience that's hard to put down."
"A rollercoaster of emotions with unexpected twists that will leave you gasping for more."
"An enthralling tale that showcases the resilience of the human spirit amidst dark secrets."
"Jim Bartley's brilliant storytelling weaves elements of love, suspense, and mystery."
"The perfect blend of historical fiction and romantic mystery, 'The Bliss House' is a literary gem."
March 17, 2023
(2.5 stars)
"Everyone around here wrote off the Bliss family years ago."
I struggled with The Bliss House, not because it was about a queer love story, or socioeconomic disadvantage, but it just wasn't all that believable. I think even poor gay people in rural Ontario can work out that a murder spree isn't the answer to problems with child protection, abusive relatives, homophobia, nosy neighbours and dead-beat dads. I just didn't get how the bodies kept piling up: "Things just snowballed." While I believed the first death (not actually a murder) might have been worth Wes and Cam covering up with the worries about the lack of a will and child custody issues relating to Dorie, it just became a non-realistic scenario as the bodies piled up. "How did they get in this godawful mess?" wasn't just a refrain from the characters.
The strengths of the book are the setting, and how its communicated. I also liked some of the evocative descriptions of living with domestic and family violence: "It's like the yelling and crying are still in the walls, along with the crack of the leather belt." I liked the way living with violence extended through to the way Dorie played: "She's going to bury Barbie up to her neck and leave her there because she has been very bad." It also does a good job with communicating rape myths, for example, the way that the burden of men's and boys' abusive sexual behaviours are placed on women and girls: "That girl needs to be covered up. At all times. Kyle is a growing boy, after all, and boys are boys." It's was nice that the male leads, Wes and Cam, both understood instinctively that blame should not lie with a little girl.
With thanks to NetGalley and Dundurn Press, Rare Machines for sending me a copy to read.
"Everyone around here wrote off the Bliss family years ago."
I struggled with The Bliss House, not because it was about a queer love story, or socioeconomic disadvantage, but it just wasn't all that believable. I think even poor gay people in rural Ontario can work out that a murder spree isn't the answer to problems with child protection, abusive relatives, homophobia, nosy neighbours and dead-beat dads. I just didn't get how the bodies kept piling up: "Things just snowballed." While I believed the first death (not actually a murder) might have been worth Wes and Cam covering up with the worries about the lack of a will and child custody issues relating to Dorie, it just became a non-realistic scenario as the bodies piled up. "How did they get in this godawful mess?" wasn't just a refrain from the characters.
The strengths of the book are the setting, and how its communicated. I also liked some of the evocative descriptions of living with domestic and family violence: "It's like the yelling and crying are still in the walls, along with the crack of the leather belt." I liked the way living with violence extended through to the way Dorie played: "She's going to bury Barbie up to her neck and leave her there because she has been very bad." It also does a good job with communicating rape myths, for example, the way that the burden of men's and boys' abusive sexual behaviours are placed on women and girls: "That girl needs to be covered up. At all times. Kyle is a growing boy, after all, and boys are boys." It's was nice that the male leads, Wes and Cam, both understood instinctively that blame should not lie with a little girl.
With thanks to NetGalley and Dundurn Press, Rare Machines for sending me a copy to read.
September 16, 2023
This is just a sad - and unnecessarily violent - story about poor, uneducated, traumatised kids - Wes, despite his years, is little more than a kid himself in practical terms - scrabbling to do their best against all odds and with no thanks to the moralising neighbourhood busy bodies. Think a queer Bonnie and Clyde - with a little kid thrown in just to mix things up.
The publicity/marketing department get full credit for creativity here: “No matter what they do, gruesome casualties seem to follow them. It could be funny if it wasn’t so nightmarish.” ‘Seem’ to follow them? Really? Could be funny? Can’t imagine how any of this could be conceived to be funny? Nightmarish? Not at all… totally devoid of the necessary tension. I felt nothing reading this book.
I was never provided with a reason to care for the characters from the start, and felt disconnected from them throughout. There is insufficient explanation provided for some of the earliest “bad” decisions they make… the decisions that lead to the cascade of further bad decisions. The entire book just reads like a train wreck - a comedy of errors, except for the fact that there is nothing comedic about any of it. I’m really not quite sure at all what the point was.
The last section - which basically amounts to an epilogue - is pointless as it really doesn’t provide for any kind of closure. Indeed, throwing Dorie/Dot into the mix is most dis-satisfying as it begs more questions than answers.
Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for granting me access to an early digital review copy.
The publicity/marketing department get full credit for creativity here: “No matter what they do, gruesome casualties seem to follow them. It could be funny if it wasn’t so nightmarish.” ‘Seem’ to follow them? Really? Could be funny? Can’t imagine how any of this could be conceived to be funny? Nightmarish? Not at all… totally devoid of the necessary tension. I felt nothing reading this book.
I was never provided with a reason to care for the characters from the start, and felt disconnected from them throughout. There is insufficient explanation provided for some of the earliest “bad” decisions they make… the decisions that lead to the cascade of further bad decisions. The entire book just reads like a train wreck - a comedy of errors, except for the fact that there is nothing comedic about any of it. I’m really not quite sure at all what the point was.
The last section - which basically amounts to an epilogue - is pointless as it really doesn’t provide for any kind of closure. Indeed, throwing Dorie/Dot into the mix is most dis-satisfying as it begs more questions than answers.
Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for granting me access to an early digital review copy.
April 25, 2023
While there were some aspects of this book that I did not enjoy, it was still interesting. but the book did have its downfall. I honestly don't care to figure out which is worse—the pedophilia or the incest—because Cam is 17 and Wes is somewhere in his 30s, and both of them are in a relationship together. I feel like the book could have worked either way if you had reduced the age difference and eliminated the incest. When the ploce interfered with their life was weird because it just happened and then a coupl eof chapters later you get the epilouge where everything was kinda okay and also not.
Once I got past the pedophilia and incest, or at least tried to, it was actually quite interesting at first, but as the book went on, I became apathetic. The characters spent a lot of time trying to figure out who they are and how to make their new lives work until something else happened, so while the book wasn't exactly boring, there was a lot of internal dialogue. Wes and Cam's POVs were interesting but occasionally made me feel icky, like when Was was preying on young guys at the diner. Dorie's POV was interesting and occasionally sad (Not a bad thing).
Amazing details were provided in the book's descriptions, such as how Grampa was rotting in the cellar or how Cam killed Gus and what that involved. The author did amazing work with that.
Once I got past the pedophilia and incest, or at least tried to, it was actually quite interesting at first, but as the book went on, I became apathetic. The characters spent a lot of time trying to figure out who they are and how to make their new lives work until something else happened, so while the book wasn't exactly boring, there was a lot of internal dialogue. Wes and Cam's POVs were interesting but occasionally made me feel icky, like when Was was preying on young guys at the diner. Dorie's POV was interesting and occasionally sad (Not a bad thing).
Amazing details were provided in the book's descriptions, such as how Grampa was rotting in the cellar or how Cam killed Gus and what that involved. The author did amazing work with that.
September 18, 2023
Connected by blood, though not siblings, Wes, Cam and Dorie live in Bliss House under the guardianship of their grandparents, Gran and Gramps. While the reason each of them end up there, isn't really explored, it's clear that they've each had a tough start in life. Unfortunately, things don't get any better.
Following the residents of Bliss House as they contend with the passing of first their Gran and then Gramps. This is primarily a story about a family's quest to stay together, albeit a very unconventional family, living in a god fearing small town, where their differences make them stand out.
While touching on many triggering topics including physical and sexual abuse and homophobia. There are moments of black humour as Wes and Cam go to ever more inventive ways to keep their family unit (and home) together.
A coming of age novel which also explores the narrow mindedness of small town living. It's easy to forget the story is set in the 1950s-60s, as the secondary characters, particularly busy body neighbours, seem to share many of the traits still present today by some, particularly when engaging with those who are a little different.
Engaging, different, hard hitting with bits of black humour, this is a book that I'm sure lends itself well to discussion at book clubs as well as self contemplation.
Following the residents of Bliss House as they contend with the passing of first their Gran and then Gramps. This is primarily a story about a family's quest to stay together, albeit a very unconventional family, living in a god fearing small town, where their differences make them stand out.
While touching on many triggering topics including physical and sexual abuse and homophobia. There are moments of black humour as Wes and Cam go to ever more inventive ways to keep their family unit (and home) together.
A coming of age novel which also explores the narrow mindedness of small town living. It's easy to forget the story is set in the 1950s-60s, as the secondary characters, particularly busy body neighbours, seem to share many of the traits still present today by some, particularly when engaging with those who are a little different.
Engaging, different, hard hitting with bits of black humour, this is a book that I'm sure lends itself well to discussion at book clubs as well as self contemplation.
Read
October 2, 2023In “The Bliss House” by Jim Bartley, he has created a story that has a complex and dark love woven deep within the narrative. From the very beginning, the characters crawl under your skin as you feel their emotions and the terrible difficulties that lie before them. Cam and Wes make horrific choices but all in the name of keeping their family safe and together. And even at the end, I found myself empathizing with Cam in particular despite the darkness that follows him around.
The novel is very much about dysfunctional love but how many families really are functional? It is also about the struggle of those different to carve out a place in society and fight to be free to love who they will and have families. Even as dark as the story evolves, that love between Cam and Wes shines as does their love for Dorie. The characters shine in this complex and dark love story.
If you like stories that have a complex end with dark events, or stories about chosen family, especially gay characters, this novel might be worth checking. The characters resonate and shine. The story is complex and dark but the love between the two will make you care about this small family even as they struggle with their darker impulses.
The novel is very much about dysfunctional love but how many families really are functional? It is also about the struggle of those different to carve out a place in society and fight to be free to love who they will and have families. Even as dark as the story evolves, that love between Cam and Wes shines as does their love for Dorie. The characters shine in this complex and dark love story.
If you like stories that have a complex end with dark events, or stories about chosen family, especially gay characters, this novel might be worth checking. The characters resonate and shine. The story is complex and dark but the love between the two will make you care about this small family even as they struggle with their darker impulses.
October 2, 2023
I went into this book expecting something different than what I got. Sometimes, this can be a good thing. This time, it’s not entirely the “blurb bait” that turned me sour, it was the prose. Jim Bartley may think he’s written a clever dark comedy full of unfortunate violence in the tradition of the Coen Brothers, but the book never comes off as that clever. It just comes off as quite boring.
I was also hoping there would be more to the romance between Wes and Cam than what was portrayed in the book. I’m not talking about explicitness–I’m talking about mentioning it at all in any terms besides just mentioning it as an afterthought here or there or whenever someone else brings it up in a (historically-accurate) derogatory way. The way their relationship is portrayed almost makes it feel cheap.
It was just a disappointment on my end.
I was provided a copy of this title by NetGalley and the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you. Due to this review being three stars or lower this review will not appear in social media.
I was also hoping there would be more to the romance between Wes and Cam than what was portrayed in the book. I’m not talking about explicitness–I’m talking about mentioning it at all in any terms besides just mentioning it as an afterthought here or there or whenever someone else brings it up in a (historically-accurate) derogatory way. The way their relationship is portrayed almost makes it feel cheap.
It was just a disappointment on my end.
I was provided a copy of this title by NetGalley and the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you. Due to this review being three stars or lower this review will not appear in social media.
February 12, 2024
The Bliss House by Jim Bartley is a beautifully rendered bleak novel. Summoning the elements of a gothic romance with consummate skill, Bartley pushes them to extremes, all within a horrifyingly-believable narrative. Two male cousins live on a remote farm and in turn care for their five-year-old female cousin. Wrapped in a tarp in a shed is their deceased grandfather, whose death they do not report so they can continue to collect his pension. The male cousins care deeply for one another, but with the interference of nosy neighbours and the children’s aid society, three more bodies become part of the story. Despite the grim details, Bartley’s ability to inject dark humour, strong writing, well-developed characters, and a sympathy that builds for these young people who are simply trying to be family while making such tragic missteps has great appeal. Both damning and contemplative, this is a well-drawn yarn written by a writer with something to say.
March 22, 2023
‘Bliss House’ was not the story that I had anticipated it to be; although it is well written and the narrative was engaging I just couldn’t connect with the novel as a whole. The concept of two young men Cam and Wes raising their five year old cousin Dorie on rural farmland in Canada began quite strongly and I appreciated the love they have for their family unit, and the lengths they will go to protect it. However there were aspects of this story that just didn’t sit well with me like the way Dorie is manipulated by a neighbour and the way that everyone but Wes and Cam hold the stance that ‘boys will be boys’. I know a lot of what I couldn’t connect with was placed in because of the time in which it is set, 1963, but I kept trying to search for the hope for these characters and it simply wasn’t there for me. Definitely an interesting read, just not one of my favourites.
Shelved as 'dnf'
May 27, 2023DNF at 15% ~
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for an honest review.
I really wanted to like this, but I tried and cannot continue. I don't know if it is intentional, but the writing style is so jagged and blunt. It's just irritating to read. The story feels like it is rushed and not edited, or the characters are just uneducated.
I will not be rating this, as I did not read a sufficient amount I feel. But I will not be returning to this. There are so many more books to read, and I don't want to just be reading this for the sake of it and waste my time.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for an honest review.
I really wanted to like this, but I tried and cannot continue. I don't know if it is intentional, but the writing style is so jagged and blunt. It's just irritating to read. The story feels like it is rushed and not edited, or the characters are just uneducated.
I will not be rating this, as I did not read a sufficient amount I feel. But I will not be returning to this. There are so many more books to read, and I don't want to just be reading this for the sake of it and waste my time.
March 18, 2023
The story of 2 young "queer" men, cousins, living on a farm in Canada in 1963. When their grandfather dies, leaving them to raise their 5 year old cousin, Dorie, they do what they need to do to keep the family together, up to and including murder.
The "voice" of the story felt very true, in the language and style. I disagree with the synopsis describing the book as "black humour". It was dark but there wasn't much humor unless you enjoy laughing at poorly educated people making bad decisions.
The "voice" of the story felt very true, in the language and style. I disagree with the synopsis describing the book as "black humour". It was dark but there wasn't much humor unless you enjoy laughing at poorly educated people making bad decisions.
July 31, 2023
Two cousins and a kid with a dead grandpa. Who people shouldn't know is dead because there's no will, and they'd not get his pension. Hiding the body and pretending that he's still alive. And just throw in a couple, or triple of murders and a tiny bit of incest will ya. God the number of times corpse smell was mentioned in this book🤢 I had started breathing through my mouth subconsciously. The book was slow for the first half but the second half just flew. It's an okay ish murder mystery(?) kind off book.
Read
September 15, 2023This story was not at all what I expected and quite different from what I would normally pick up. It had a lot of heavy content for a short novel. The language was very plain and felt almost choppy at times. The ending skipped through time in a way that felt like it was trying to fit a lot of information in but only taking a few pages to do so. I had trouble feeling connected to these characters.
While this one wasn't for me, I think there is truly an audience for every book and would leave it up to the individual reader to decide.
Thank you to Rare Machines for my gifted copy.
While this one wasn't for me, I think there is truly an audience for every book and would leave it up to the individual reader to decide.
Thank you to Rare Machines for my gifted copy.
March 26, 2023
The Bliss House was not what I expected, going into this I expected more of a mystery, some crime and possibly humour however it was more of a very dark literary fiction. Some parts were also quite convoluted, although this was well written, the characters seemed quite unlikeable and didn't act their ages making it hard to understand what was going on a lot of the time. Also some of the writing and actions were very questionable so I didn't really enjoy this.
March 26, 2023
The Bliss House is not the kind of book the description leads it to be. I thought it was going to be more of a mystery with some humor thrown in. Instead it was full of unlikeable characters making terrible decisions in unbelievable circumstances. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 28, 2023
This was not what I expected at all. The Bliss house is a farmhouse that leases out its land. Only 3 remain. Wes 28, Cam 17 & little Dorie 5. Oh and the rotting corpse of grampa in the cold room. Things snowball and the bodies mount leaving them to go on the run. This is dark, with lots of triggers.
December 24, 2023
When reading this book I didn’t expect to find another favorite author. This book held my attention the whole time and played out like a movie as I read. I loved the relationships between characters and the murder spree was very action packed I loved this book so much. Can’t wait to read more from this author very well done.
March 18, 2023
I expected this to be darker, or funnier.
It did not live up to those expectations.
It had some nice moments, but mostly it was just all just okay.
Pleasant enough, but unfortunately for me, not very memorable by next week I think.
It did not live up to those expectations.
It had some nice moments, but mostly it was just all just okay.
Pleasant enough, but unfortunately for me, not very memorable by next week I think.
March 29, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
So the description of this book and the book itself do not at all match up.
It isn’t a thriller at all. More a fiction with a darker tone to it.
It wasn’t bad but was not what I had expected. Keep an open mind when reading this book.
So the description of this book and the book itself do not at all match up.
It isn’t a thriller at all. More a fiction with a darker tone to it.
It wasn’t bad but was not what I had expected. Keep an open mind when reading this book.
April 10, 2023
Gripping and moving story of an unconventional family that falls into a lot of very bad decisions due to conservative societal pressure. The dialogue -- from rural Ontario in 1963 -- is pitch-perfect, and the visual details are crisp and precise. This is not a thriller; it is a literary book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews