It Was Her House First by Cherie Priest (Poisoned Pen Press)

Ever wondered what would happen if your dream house turned out to be a haunted nightmare? Cherie Priest's It Was Her House First takes you on that wild ride, with a grieving woman named Ronnie Mitchell who buys a rundown mansion only to discover some seriously spooky stuff happening inside.

Ronnie, hoping to find peace after a personal tragedy, unwittingly awakens the fury of a vengeful silent film star named Venita Rost, who haunts the house alongside the spirit of Inspector Bartholomew Sloan, trapped there by guilt and Venita's wrath. As Ronnie starts renovating the place, she gets caught up in a deadly game between the living and the dead.

The book's plot is centered on Ronnie's journey, as she transitions from seeking solace to fighting for her life. Her skepticism fades as she faces the supernatural head-on, showing her strength and resourcefulness. Through diary entries, we learn more about Venita Rost, a complex character whose actions are fueled by tragic loss. Inspector Sloan's chapters shed light on the house's history, though some may find his parts less captivating.

It Was Her House First tackles themes like grief, revenge, and the blurred boundaries between the living and the dead. The parallel between Ronnie's struggle with loss and Venita's experience creates a chilling echo. Priest explores the destructive consequences of unresolved grief and the dark side of seeking vengeance.

The story shifts between Ronnie, Venita, and Bartholomew's perspectives, and hops between the present and the past. This narrative style skillfully intertwines two stories that come together at the end. Priest's atmospheric writing is a strong point, painting a vivid picture of the haunted house and heightening the suspense. The language is easy to follow, and the tone mixes humor with horror to create an entertaining read.

It Was Her House First brings a spine-tingling sense of suspense, fusing classic haunted house vibes with gothic flair. As you witness Ronnie's terror and determination, along with the tragic pasts of Venita and Bartholomew, you'll experience an emotional rollercoaster. The book highlights how grief and loss can push people to unexpected actions.

The story shines with complex characters, a vivid setting, and a mix of horror and emotional depth. 

One thing that could make the story even better would be to further develop the characters of Venita and Bartholomew, giving them the same depth as Ronnie. While the book has its eerie moments, amping up the scare factor in some scenes could make the story more chilling.

It Was Her House First is special because of its ability to mix traditional horror tropes with genuine emotional depth. The story speaks to the experience of grief and the search for healing, all while delivering chills and thrills. The book makes the reader think about the lasting effects of trauma and the ways the past can haunt the present.

4/5