A review by pumpkinbisque
We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson

challenging dark mysterious reflective fast-paced

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

3.75

really interesting horror, it got me excited to read more shirley jackson. i loved the meditation on sisterhood this offered, and i loved how nothing felt surprising but still packed a punch. also always love a good cat character.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Murder and Fire/Fire injury

i knew it was merrikat all along there was no way it wasn't. this isn't really a critique i just like when i guess things right. also kinda love how we never find out why merrikat did what she did and if she would do it again -- i think we're supposed to think she would? because constance won't let her touch food? but idk i thought it was interesting. also liked how quickly i forgot merrikat was 18 bc she acted like she was 12; really effective way to show her infantilization at the hands of her sister. i wonder how much of that had to do with the murders?