Book Review: "The Haunting Of Ashburn House" by Darcy Coates

Book Review for "The Haunting Of Ashburn" by Darcy Coates

Adrienne, a young woman in her early twenties, had almost nothing when she moved into Ashburn house. With only about twenty dollars, no food, a cat to take care of, few possessions, and no stable plan for the future, it seemed like a miracle when Adrienne discovered she had inherited the old house. The gift was also surprising; Adrienne knew almost nothing about the Great Aunt who used to live in the home. The house was isolated on a hill and surrounded by dark woods - it was an eerie location for a young woman with no cell phone service or close friends she could contact.

The house itself was also spooky. Strange messages, such as " no mirrors" and "light the candle, your family is still dead," appeared etched onto the wood throughout the home.

As Adrienne explored the small but friendly town of Ipson, one thing quickly became clear; her Great Aunt Edith was a mystery no one could figure out. She kept to herself and never had visitors. She also adhered to strange routines she never altered - such as lighting a candle every Friday in the attic. The house itself was also shrouded in mystery; Edith's family was reportedly murdered there, but details of the killings were difficult to track down. The house was believed to be haunted, and both the home and Edith had frightened and fascinated the town of Ipson for years.

"The Haunting Of Ashburn" could truly be considered a classic ghost story with a creative twist. The main character, Adrienne, proves to be both smart and strong. The author beautifully weaves both gore and tenderness, suspense and closure to make the book appease horror lovers without ignoring emotion and humanity. One of it's strengths is the inherit contradictions in the story. The house can be both welcoming and frightening, and Edith appears as both mean - spirited and considerate. The reader is kept guessing until more answers are revealed.

This book contains some gory descriptions; I wouldn't recommend reading it before sitting down to a meal. Nevertheless, it would probably be suitable for both young adults and older adults alike. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys horror novels, especially novels with a haunted house theme.

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