I'm 4 episodes in and it's encouraging to read it gets better in the 2nd half of the series. I need to get out of the Hill House mode, and while I know it's a sequel, it's weird seeing 2 of the same characters play 2 very different roles in the same series.
Maybe my expectations were high based on how HOHH was (which was fantastic, by the way). This is considerably slower and a more patient thriller. Agree about the lack of horror but that in itself lends it to being more scary. I loved HOHH but you knew in an episode there was at the very least a handful of scary jumpy moments. The fact there are less in Bly Manor means it will keep you guessing even more when you next could shit yourself.
I'm not sure what Hannah Grose's role is so far. Maybe it becomes clearer but what is her part in the history. She's there and just very pleasant and friendly, but there's something to her which is making me think twice about her (not to mention her sightings of that crack in the walls).
I've not ready your spoiler @Viva la FCB but I am very intrigued as to what lies beneath.
I think some credit has to be given to the kids though. They play their roles very well. I actually enjoyed their story-time thing they did. They are formidable actors!