Silence for the Dead

Simone James writes a gothic tale set in 1919 at Portis House, a remote hospital for soldiers suffering from shell shock. Kitty Weekes arrives under false pretenses to work as a nurse, hiding her own unstable past. The estate shows signs of decay, with crumbling plaster and strange cold drafts filling the empty rooms. Patients share a terrifying dream they refuse to discuss, suggesting a hidden trauma tied to the former occupants who left abruptly. Kitty forms a close bond with Jack Yates, an inmate whose background remains unclear. They investigate the hospital’s secrets together while medical issues isolate them from help. The narrative draws on World War One history and supernatural fiction traditions. It appeals to readers who enjoy atmospheric mysteries involving nurses and haunted estates. Those seeking fast-paced action or contemporary settings may find the slow burn unsuitable. The story relies on the tension between the visible decay of Portis House and the invisible psychological wounds of its inhabitants. James uses the setting to explore themes of war trauma and deception. The plot unfolds through Kitty’s perspective as she uncovers the truth behind the shared nightmares. This approach suits fans of historical horror who appreciate detailed environmental storytelling.