Book Review
Matt Monroe and the Haunted House
By Edward Torba
Published October 15, 2019
Why I chose this book:
T has me in a spooky-book mood, so this cover caught my eye. After I read the synopsis, I was excited by the opportunity to join this blog tour. A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Book Review:
I do not like grisly horror or psychological thrillers, but I do like a well-crafted ghost story that is mystery and character driven. That os precisely what Matt Monroe and the Haunted House is. (You can think of Betty Ren Wright or Mary Downing Hahn, though Edward Torba seems to aim more in the direction of a male readership.) I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I recommend it to young readers of similar taste. It was almost impossible to put down.
A prologue introduces the Parker children and alludes to their 1901 murder. Next, readers meet the titular Matt who sees two children: the ghosts of the Parker children. Repeated appearances lead Matt to investigate their presence. It becomes clear that their arrival is an after-effect from the events of the previous book; by visiting the realm of Paragon, Matt and his friends opened their own world to other visitors, including those they thought they had vanquished in Paragon. The Haunted House follows Matt and his friends as they attempt to figure out precisely what effects their earlier actions have had. Each new character and strange occurrence adds a layer to the artfully crafted mystery. I hesitate to get too specific and spoil anything for you.
The story is compelling and the characters relatable. Bullies, a dragon, family drama, and magical abilities all combine to make for a gripping story. And the fluctuating levels of confidence vs. self-consciousness and impulsivity vs. critical thinking produce an authentic depiction of the high school experience. Torba weaves a delightful web of mystery and deceit that will ensnare readers of any age (though not as young as T - he doesn't need to read about murdered children).
Note: It is unnecessary to have read the first book. Enough background information is provided to make reading The Haunted House enjoyable.
GIVEAWAY:
Enter For A Chance To Win A Matt Monroe Series Gift Basket!
One (1) grand prize winner receives:
-A copy of Matt Monroe and the Secret Society of Odontology (Book 1)
-An advanced reader copy of Matt Monroe and the Haunted House (Book 2)
-Dental supplies!
Two (2) winners receive:
-A copy of Matt Monroe and the Haunted House (Book 2)
Two (2) winners receive:
-A digital copy of Matt Monroe and the Haunted House (Book 2)
*This digital prize is open to worldwide entrants
Giveaway begins October 1, 2019, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends October 31, 2019, at 11:59 P.M. MT.
Disclosure:
Per FTC guidelines, I disclose partnership with TCBR and New Shelves Books.
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