December 31, 2008

Review: House of Dark Shadows by Robert Liparulo



Courtesy of Thomas Nelson

Fifteen year old Xander King is miserable. His family is moving from Pasadena to the small town of Pinedale. “Still in California, but barely.”  When the family arrives they find what his parents consider a dream house but Xander just considers creepy.

 Full of mysterious sounds, creepy shadows and unexplained footprints, the house just seems too sinister for Xander to feel comfortable. As Xander and his twelve year old brother begin to explore the house they find things are even weirder than they could have ever imagined.

 For a young adult book I was surprised at how well the storyline and suspense are written. Usually with YA writing the storytelling is a little too cheesy or predictable but this book breaks out of that mold and I was as creeped out as any Dean Koontz or Steven King book makes me feel when reading late at night.

 House of Dark Shadows is Book 1 in the Dream House Kings series and after reading it you’ll want to immediately pick up Book 2, Watcher in the Woods as the ending clearly warns that it’s “Not The End.” You’re left with some answers and a HUGE cliffhanger. I enjoyed this quick read and recommend it for both YA and adult suspense readers. 

7 comments :

GirlwiththeBraids said...

I really want to read this book. I put it on my wish list after Tree Swing Reading had a contest with it. It sounds good anyway!

Belinda Y said...

Ooh sounds deliciously creepy! I must admit I love reading YA fiction now and then. It's rewarding to be able to read a book quickly! I'll be keeping an eye out for this one.

Holly said...

I think my 13 year old daughter might enjoy this book.


hollyblanco@gmail.com

Christina G. said...

I'm no young adult, but I've GOT to read this. Thanks!

Wrighty said...

I keep seeing good reviews for this one. I have to get it and start on this series. The new colors look nice on your blog. Will you be decorating for more holidays? :)

5wrights1@verizon.net

Anonymous said...

Monie
you sure made this one sound "suspensful" just what I like. I will get a copy for Victoria who by the way is 15 like the older boy in the story! I will read it after her.

yadgirl said...

This book sounds great.