Book Review - This House Is Haunted by John Boyne

Its a cold winter day in 1867 and Eliza Caine decides that she is ready for a new challenge. She reads an ad for a governess position at Gaudlin Hall and she decides its the change she needs. When she traveling to her new home, she is shaken by an accident that occurs during her trip. However, she tries to move on from the occurrence when she meets her new wards, Isabella and Eustace. 

Upon her arrival and meeting the children, she realizes that there is no adult present with the children or any sign of her mysterious employer. The children are hesitant to speak about their parents and she is met with an similar experience with the townspeople. Eliza tries to get some sleep and decides to tackle the issue tomorrow but, she feels a foreboding presence in her room. She knows that something is very wrong at Gaudlin Hall.

Eliza tries to discount her experience from the previous night. However, she keeps feeling that something is following her. Eliza realizes that if is she and the children are to survive the violent ghost, that she will need to uncover the history behind the evil presence. Will Eliza be able to uncover the truth before it's too late?

The book was an interesting tale but, was poorly executed. While reading the novel, it reminded me of older Gothic stories I have read and I was surprised that the book was published in 2013. I thought the novel moved a bit slowly for my taste.I felt like details were used to draw out the novel in place of actual story details. Eliza is portrayed as a smart woman but, I felt like she did some questionable things. Perhaps, I should be more understanding as she seems to be grieving and the job seems to be something out of her realm of experience. The ending and "secret" was predictable and I was able to figure it out quickly.

Book Review - The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne

Photo Credit - Amazon

Cyril Avery was adopted from birth and his adoptive parents remind him that he will never be a true Avery. He was born out of wedlock to a teenage woman who was thrown out of her Irish community of the church. Only, Cyril's best friend Julian Woodbead allows Cyril to feel like he belongs and has a true friend. However, as Cyril grows older he realizes he wants more than just a friendship with Julian and struggles to cope with his sexual preferences. Will Cyril act on his feelings for Julian? Will Cyril be able to find someone who understands him? 

In this coming of age novel, it shows the struggle when one tries to find their true self. The novel spans the entire life span of Cyril and it allows readers to see how Cyril grows and adapt to his surroundings. While, the novel was a fun and interesting read, I felt like it had one too many coincidences and tidy "clean ups" but it was very entertaining to read. I look forward to Mr. Boyne's next novel.

*Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**