Girl in the Walls by A.J. Gnuse

 

I received this book as part of #BRPreview. 

I am not usually a gothic novel reader so was initially apprehensive. The story ticks all the boxes when it comes to the conventions of a Gothic novel but it is not Frankenstein. This is American Southern Gothic literature; something quite different. 

The setting is in the months leading up to Hurricane Katrina in 2005. 

At first, I wrestled with the premise of a young girl living inside the walls of her old home while a new family lived there. As she climbed up and down inside the walls like a spider monkey, I was mentally sputtering "Preposterous!". But I have lived long enough now to know nothing is impossible. 

Once disbelief was suspended, I had a fine old time, scaring myself silly with the "monster" who inevitably shows up. 

This book is a triumph on many levels: the writing, the characters, the pacing. I loved the short little chapters. They helped ease me into the story and made me feel I could dip my toes in carefully. A big thank you to all who brought this story to life. So many important ideas to think and talk about; what is home, a monster,  fear ? Great job!