A House with Good Bones: A Charming Dive into Southern Gothic Quirkiness
As a longtime admirer of T. Kingfisher’s unique storytelling, I was practically vibrating with anticipation for her latest release, A House with Good Bones. This novel, nestled deep within the Southern Gothic tradition, promised not just a gripping story but a deeply personal exploration of family ties, secrets, and the peculiarities that can inhabit a home. I dove in, ready for yet another delightful adventure with one of my favorite authors, and I can confidently say it did not disappoint.
At the heart of this tale is Sam, an archaeo-entomologist whose life is interrupted when her brother raises concerns about their mother’s health and state of mind. Returning to her childhood home in North Carolina, Sam feels an unsettling shift in the air. It’s not just the changes her mother has made to the house—there’s a palpable fear lurking beneath the surface. This enigmatic atmosphere sets the tone for a riveting journey into family histories and buried secrets, highlighted by the shocking discovery of a Mason Jar full of human teeth hidden under the rose bushes.
Kingfisher’s writing style is one of her biggest strengths. It flows seamlessly, inviting us into the characters’ lives with a distinctive voice that feels both familiar and fresh. I found myself chuckling and gasping in equal measure, her balance of horror and humor mirror my own outlook on life, making it simple to connect with Sam’s character. She is determined, compassionate, and fiercely protective of her mother, embodying the idea that we don’t just inherit our family’s history; we have the responsibility to confront it.
The supporting characters, particularly Phil, the kind-of-cute handyman, and Gail, the eccentric neighbor with a one-winged vulture, are wonderfully quirky additions that enrich the narrative. Gail fits the role of the wise mentor perfectly, providing comedic relief while also guiding Sam through her family’s tangled past. This blend of humor and horror is characteristic of Kingfisher’s work, making it easy to see why I associate her writing with the exhilaration of storytime with an old friend.
Another commendable aspect lies in the atmospheric world-building. The house itself feels like a character, layered with history and secrets that unfold as Sam begins to dig. Kingfisher’s descriptions paint vivid imagery—each shadow and creaky floorboard feels alive, contributing to the narrative’s tension. The pacing builds effortlessly, leading to a thrilling and unexpected conclusion reminiscent of The Twisted Ones, yet uniquely its own.
Listening to the audiobook of A House with Good Bones was an experience worth mentioning as well! The narrator brought the story to life, sort of like an excellent storyteller at a campfire, and I found it difficult to stop once I pressed play.
In conclusion, A House with Good Bones is a masterpiece of Southern Gothic with heart and humor, making it an easy recommendation for fans of T. Kingfisher and newcomers alike. It underscores the importance of confronting our past and reminds us that the most profound truths often lie buried beneath the surface. This book has certainly left a lasting impression on me, and I can’t wait to revisit it down the line—because like any great home, it’s got good bones that resonate long after the last page is turned. Thank you to Tor Nightfire and Macmillan Audio for allowing me to embark on this unforgettable journey! 📚💚