ALL HAIL THE SUNFLOWER GOD.

The author note at the end of this book says it's already been optioned for a film, and HOLY SHIT I AM SCREAMING because this would make SUCH a good film!

Now, if that wasn't enough to convince you to pick up this absolutely delightful little novella, let me go on. The House on Abigail Lane follows the story of the titular house and all of its assorted hauntings and tragedies over a 60-year span, presented as nonfiction — which immediately sold me, as I love any sort of horror presentation that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. Kealan pulled this off magnificently and I was wholly sucked in from cover to cover.

Houses are empty shells of wood and brick and plaster, devoid of souls, or intent. It's us, the creatures that are installed within them, that ultimately define their character.

Throughout the story, we catch glimpses of life for different victims of the house, and it's so intriguing to watch it all come together, while I constantly wondered how they would connect in the end. The finale wasn't anything I could have predicted, but it fit perfectly. I absolutely loved how bizarre of a story it all boiled down to be in the end.

One last thing: as a strong believer in the idea that fiction can and often should offer perspective on real life issues, I loved the brief but effective message on racism and how cases of missing Black people don't receive the same attention and investigative power as those of missing white people do. It's a harsh and unhappy truth that we need to face more often, especially in the horror and thriller genres, I think.

All in all, The House on Abigail Lane was such a fun, twisted little story and I absolutely hope the adaptation comes to pass, because I think it's going to make for one hell of a film!

Buddy read with Bex! ♥