If you’re trying to diet and having a hard time of it, reading this book will help. And personally, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to eat vegetable soup again!Other reviewers have said it, but it bears repeating – this book is gross, and should probably come with a warning: not for those with sensitive stomachs or sensibilities.Keene is an artist with words, and in this book he paints the most vivid, horrible images. You can sense the gleeful pleasure he must have had describing the inhabitants of the house and the horrors they inflict on the victims trapped within. However, too much of the storytelling is sacrificed for the gore, and the six main characters – the young people that get trapped and set the ball rolling – serve in the role that all young people have served in slasher films since the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre. But I wish there had been more story because I wanted to learn more about the inhabitants; they are far more disturbing and interesting than the average slasher film boogyman. Still, this story is a study in description. For wannabe writers - like me - pay attention to not only how Keene describes (word choice), but what he chooses to describe, and think about what it is about his descriptions that makes you grimace and your stomach churn. Besides, focusing on the story academically does make it easier to, um, choke down. I have really enjoyed several of Keene's books, Including "The Rising" and "Darkness on the Edge of Town". I enjoy Keene's writing style, though it seems to me that several phrases and words (like 'gristle')are used over and over. My favorite thing about this book is that is never hesitates to be as disgusting and brutal as possible. As a person who can not stand to watch or listen to things like this, texts written in such a style help me to explore the morbidly curious part of my mind. The characters die off at a pace that does not allow for much development, but I'll excuse that, since the book is relatively short and mainly focused on plot. Overall, I found the book to be an interesting, quick read that did what it meant to do. Far from memorable (to me at least), but worth the time spent.
What do You think about Urban Gothic (2009)?
This kept me awake all night. Read it, then couldn't sleep. Absolutely amazing.
—Aleesha
