Review of Aaron Polson’s “The House Eaters”

I finally feel like I’m out of my book slump.  Aaron Polson’s “The House Eaters” has finally given my a plot that lived up to the hype of the summary and I wasn’t disappointed.  It was a good feeling to finish a book without thinking “was that it?”  I’m hoping this ends the summer book slump, but even if it doesn’t it was a bright spot in my week.  I’d also like to give Polson a high five for editing his book.  Yes, there were several errors but I could tell someone actually went through it and worked with it and after reading several books in succession where the authors didn’t seem to care, it was refreshing.

Nick can’t stand his new life.  Leaving the city to start up life in Barton Hallow, a middle of nowhere town with nothing to do and nowhere to go he thinks things can’t get any worse.  Then his parents stop talking to each other, too wrapped up in their own problems to worry about his.  That’s when Nick discovers The House.  Built into the side of a hill The House looks out over the rest of the neighborhood like a wraith…and then he starts hearing voices and seeing doors that shouldn’t exist.  Life in the Hallow might not be what it seems…and it’s certainly not as safe.

Polson has crafted a unique story with a writing style that flows from the first page to the last.  His characters are well rounded and, while you’ll find plenty of stereotypes, his main characters have personalities of their own.  There are several areas of the story I would have liked to see a little more development, such as Nick’s sister’s telepathy which is mentioned and used but not explained.  There’s also the question of whether or not fire really destroys that is brought up but then left forgotten as the story ends (this will make more sense if you’ve read the book, I won’t go into detail because then we’re in spoiler territory).  However, even with these minor points the book is an exciting read and will keep you guessing.

It’s a quick read and you’ll have it done in a day if you have a few hours to spare and nothing to do.  It’s definitely a YA horror read and even though the characters are seniors in high school there’s nothing in the book that would make it inappropriate for the middle school horror crowd or the adult horror fan that’s young at heart.  I look forward to seeing what else Polson’s written, he’s shown a lot of potential and “The House Eaters” is well worth the read.