A review by bexcain
The House that Horror Built by Christina Henry

dark mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

I picked up this book a while ago but had it earmarked for a potential spooky season read, I’m glad I left it until then, books with these themes just hit different in October.

It had a creepy, unsettling atmosphere - a perfect spooky season read in that regard. Christina Henry is very easy to read and the pacing in this book works well up until the ending where it all feels a bit rushed. I loved the meta culture references and tropes throughout this one.

For the plot, it was original but the ending didn’t match up to the first two thirds of build up in my opinion. I feel like the conclusion was twisted but I was left wanting more from it. I wouldn’t say it runs on multiple timelines but does have very short flashbacks to Harry and Castillo’s pasts. It’s set around the Covid-19 pandemic but is only referenced very briefly in a few points so I wouldn’t let that put you off.

Characters were a blend of intriguing and annoying. I was empathetic towards the protagonist but didn’t feel very invested in what happened to her, was more favourable of her son. The movie crew were most interesting as you’re trying to guess the part they have to play in the unfolding situation.

There’s an interesting discussion layered in here about what makes a monster or who is the real monster, is it a creature, a spirit, is it a teenage girl taking a deep interest in horror culture, controlling uber-religious parents, a dad who abandoned his son, a son who defied his famous dad and became uncontrollable or a work-obsessed reclusive father?!?

Overall I’m giving this one 3.5 stars, it was a fast-paced enjoyable horror. Good for spooky season and although it wasn’t the most satisfying ending I’d still read more works from this author and I have quite the backlist to work through.