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A review by pastelwriter
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
dark
mysterious
slow-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
4.0
I am beginning to learn that I absolutely love gothic horror. It just hits the vibes so well.
The writing of this novel is just impeccable. There is not a word wasted. It is so incredibly quotable because of how well written it is. It has one of the strongest openings I’ve ever read in a novel.
As for the characters, the sapphic energy between Eleanor and Theo was impeccable. Eleanor was needy and clingy as hell, but I eventually grew fond of her. It was cute how much she just wanted to be loved and accepted. I just wish the relationship between Eleanor and Theo had been sweeter for longer.
Overall, this wasn’t exactly scary, but I enjoyed it. I think the strongest part of it is the sense of isolation and just all the psychological horror elements of it.
The writing of this novel is just impeccable. There is not a word wasted. It is so incredibly quotable because of how well written it is. It has one of the strongest openings I’ve ever read in a novel.
As for the characters, the sapphic energy between Eleanor and Theo was impeccable. Eleanor was needy and clingy as hell, but I eventually grew fond of her. It was cute how much she just wanted to be loved and accepted. I just wish the relationship between Eleanor and Theo had been sweeter for longer.
Overall, this wasn’t exactly scary, but I enjoyed it. I think the strongest part of it is the sense of isolation and just all the psychological horror elements of it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicidal thoughts and Suicide