An excellent blend of horror and absurdity…
Rife’s third entry in The Cool Thing series takes readers on a sinister yet darkly comedic journey. Set aboard a ship turned nightmarish labyrinth, the story follows RL and Jayderay, a couple whose decision to buy a haunted house quickly spirals into a surreal and terrifying ordeal.
Rife’s characters are grounded in stark realism that contrasts with the bizarre setting. RL’s obliviousness and Jayderay’s mounting anxiety create compelling tension that anchors the story, even as it descends into chaos. Their interactions feel genuine and layered, making the supernatural occurrences more impactful. Supporting characters like Elvis and Dr. Moto add further depth. Elvis’s tragic link to the ghosts of children introduces a haunting sadness, while Dr. Moto’s erratic experiments inject unsettling bursts of humor. Rife keeps the tension simmering, expertly building suspense before punctuating it with sharp, unexpected humor. These well-timed moments of levity provide brief respites from the madness, intensifying the emotional weight of the characters’ uncertain fates. The novel revitalizes traditional ghost story elements by tying the supernatural to the characters’ emotional baggage. The apparitions haunting RL and Jayderay aren’t just specters—they reflect their unresolved trauma and regrets. The haunted house itself serves as both a literal and metaphorical maze, mirroring the characters’ internal struggles. As they confront their fears, desires, and the specters of their pasts, the house becomes a canvas for exploring deeper questions of love, loneliness, and the absurdity of existence. Despite its bizarre elements, the story never loses sight of its emotional core, remaining focused on RL and Jayderay’s relationship. Their bond, tested by fear and uncertainty, shows the strength of love in chaos. Brace yourself for a narrative that thrills and disturbs in equal parts.
Pub date August 20, 2024
Deep Portal Publishing
ISBN 979-8986280622
Price $22.91 (USD) Paperback, $6.69 Kindle edition