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A review by rosseshelf
She Is a Haunting by Trang Thanh Tran
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
❝ It sounds ridiculous and yet real and threatening—every house learning as you learn to live inside it. Every house listening. ❞
❝ I am a tourist in the country where my parents were born. Even my clothes have been here before me. ❞
I completely concur with my opinion on the rarity of finding a good book about haunted houses that can live up to my expectations. However, I must say that this particular story impressed me beyond measure with its exceptional plot and captivating writing style. The author's ability to weave a web of suspense and tension around the readers is nothing short of remarkable. The way the plot unfolds, and the characters come to life, is a testament to the author's skill and creativity.
Despite not being particularly fond of horror, I found myself engrossed in this book's premise, which was intriguing and unique. The book introduces new Vietnamese voices to literature, which is a welcome shift from the conventional narratives we often come across. Furthermore, the author explores significant ideas related to colonialism in Vietnam, diaspora feelings, and identity.
The author utilizes horror as a tool to delve into these complex themes with precision and nuance. The way the author has executed this is awe-inspiring. The horror elements in the book are not merely for the sake of scaring the readers, but they serve a more profound purpose in the narrative, which is a hallmark of excellent horror writing.
Overall, I believe this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys horror, as well as those interested in exploring cultural themes and perspectives. The author's writing style, combined with a unique approach to horror, makes this book an enthralling and thought-provoking read.
Graphic: Body horror, Racism, and Colonisation