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A review by backpackingbookworm
The Last House on Needless Street by Catriona Ward
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Like most people who've read this book, I had no idea where it was going at the start and was tempted at times to DNF (a religious talking cat was certainly a new one for me). Although I had no idea what was happening, something kept me turning the pages and I'm so glad I did. If you're reading this book right now and can't decide whether to continue, I urge you to STICK WITH IT. Because what follows is nothing short of brilliant.
It's impossible to do this book justice without revealing spoilers so I'll try and keep it vague. Firstly, I have to commend the author for the amount of research she put into this book; the way she constructed the narrative was outstanding. It could have easily fallen down a 'tropey' hole but because there was so much research conducted, it turned into something completely original and sticky, as in I won't be forgetting this book for a very very long time.
Secondly, top marks for character building and exploration especially with such complex characters that must have been very difficult to switch between. The writing in this book is a little tricky at first, but also reflects the characters and their thoughts brilliantly.
I can't say anymore but definitely pick this up if you're interested in a gritty, psychological thriller that pushes the boundaries of genre standards.
Rating breakdown
It's impossible to do this book justice without revealing spoilers so I'll try and keep it vague. Firstly, I have to commend the author for the amount of research she put into this book; the way she constructed the narrative was outstanding. It could have easily fallen down a 'tropey' hole but because there was so much research conducted, it turned into something completely original and sticky, as in I won't be forgetting this book for a very very long time.
Secondly, top marks for character building and exploration especially with such complex characters that must have been very difficult to switch between. The writing in this book is a little tricky at first, but also reflects the characters and their thoughts brilliantly.
I can't say anymore but definitely pick this up if you're interested in a gritty, psychological thriller that pushes the boundaries of genre standards.
Rating breakdown
- Plot/narrative - 4.8
- Writing style/readability - 4.4
- Characters - 4.8
- Diverse themes - 4.7
- Ending - 4.7
Overall - 4.7
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Abandonment, Confinement, Mental illness, Physical abuse, Torture, and Suicide
Moderate: Medical trauma, Animal cruelty, Animal death, and Kidnapping