How to Sell a Haunted House – by Grady Hendrix

I’ve started and stopped this review a few times, then started over. It’s difficult to put into words how much I enjoyed this book and why. So I decided to just go with freestyle. I’ll put down my words as they come to me. It’s the only way it’s going to happen. So let’s go!

This is my second Grady Hendrix book. I started with We Sold Our Souls last year. So I had a feel for his writing style. He stayed true to form with How to Sell a Haunted House. Just when I thought things couldn’t get any weirder – they do. Boy, do they ever! Besides the spookiness of dolls and puppets, Hendrix throws in the all too real horrors that can be found in family – especially when a loved one passes away. Why does this seem to often bring out the worst in siblings? Hendrix takes us on a rollercoaster ride of emotions between Louise and Mark. After their parents pass they need to figure out what to do with the house they grew up in. I swear I alternately loved and hated almost every character in this book! And the relationships all felt so genuine and real.

I’ve seen words thrown around about this book like “spooky” and “campy.” Yes, is it all of that and more! I also found it endearing. Louise’s love for her daughter, her parents, and her infuriating brother made me love this book even more. It was a fun trip! I highly recommend it, unless you have an extreme fear of creepy dolls, puppets, or messy family squabbles. I give this book all the stars! Five out of five creepy puppet stars from me!