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monicaa_d's review against another edition
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I can see why this is a classic. It's timeless, creepy, and engaging. Eleanor is relatable, but as the story progresses the reader gets thrown into the uncertainty of an unreliable narrator and is left to wonder what's real. The tension builds throughout the book, and it manages to be scary without body horror or actual injury. It's terrifying in the way a haunted house is- no one touches you, but the threat feels looming.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Car accident, Suicide, Blood, Alcohol, and Death of parent
Minor: Alcoholism
stephe's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Wow. I was expecting to enjoy this book based on its reputation and how much I liked Mike Flanagan’s Netflix adaptation, and it exceeded expectations! Jackson’s prose is *chef’s kiss* so good. The characters are so well-written: no one is explained to you, not even Eleanor, whose interiority is most in view. The dialogue is punchy and sharp. And the spooky factor is top-notch. Also, it seems very clearly to be a story about queer awakening, longing, and isolation that’s both profound and devastating. All around great book, and it deserves its place as one of the best ghost stories ever written.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Gaslighting, Emotional abuse, Suicide, Alcohol, Mental illness, Suicidal thoughts, Alcoholism, Death, and Toxic friendship
sushibell's review
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Incredible character development that shows a woman diving into insanity. Little focus on men and romance which sets it apart from similar books.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Suicidal thoughts
Minor: Alcoholism
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