We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer (Atria)

Having heard so much buzz about this book on bookstagram, I was eager to dive in. However, as the saying goes, there was much ado about nothing, or at least very little. While the concept was intriguing, the execution left me wanting, particularly regarding character development.

Marcus Kliewer’s debut novel We Used to Live Here is an engrossing blend of horror and psychological intrigue that draws readers in from the outset. The story follows Eve and her partner Charlie, a couple who make their living flipping houses. They relocate to an old property in rural Oregon, intending to turn it into their dream home. Their plans are upended when a family shows up at their doorstep claiming to have once lived there. This unexpected encounter triggers a series of strange and frightening events that blur the line between reality and the supernatural.

The plot skillfully weaves together themes of memory, identity, and the past's lasting impact. As Eve faces increasingly bizarre occurrences in their new home, she is forced to confront her own memories and fears, leading to heightened paranoia. Kliewer's inclusion of real psychological phenomena such as sleep paralysis and the Mandela effect lends authenticity to the horror elements and allows readers to connect with the story on a personal level.

The atmosphere of We Used to Live Here is infused with tension and dread, with the decrepit house emerging as a character in its own right. The isolation of rural Oregon contributes to feelings of entrapment, while eerie descriptions create a foreboding tone that persists throughout the book. The characters occasionally fall into predictable horror stereotypes. While Eve's transformation from skepticism to terror is captivating, her partner Charlie can feel underdeveloped at times.

Kliewer's writing style is immersive, combining a fast-paced narrative with interspersed documents like newspaper articles and police interviews that enhance the depth and believability of Eve's unreliable narration. This unconventional structure enables readers to experience the story from various perspectives, elevating the suspense.

Some readers may find the ambiguous ending unsatisfying, as it leaves many questions unanswered. However, this open-endedness encourages readers to reflect on the themes of fear and memory instead of providing tidy conclusions. Kliewer’s background as a stop-motion animator is evident in his meticulous attention to detail and vivid visual storytelling.

Marcus Kliewer has quickly made a name for himself in contemporary horror fiction. His journey from Reddit's NoSleep forum to publication demonstrates his unique storytelling approach and his talent for exploring universal fears. We Used to Live Here enthralls readers with its chilling narrative while showcasing Kliewer's ability to transform personal experiences into compelling fiction.

3/5