Hey Spook Lovers,

I’ve got a question for you. Have you ever experienced anything paranormal? Feel free to share if you have! I’ve had many a bizarre experience in my life (as does my entire family), so it’s no wonder why I gravitate to the paranormal genre when I read.

Today’s book review is all about Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill.

I bought a physical copy of this book along with Tender is the Flesh on my last writing retreat. To date I’ve only read Hill’s Locke and Key graphic novel series, so it’s long overdue that I give another work of his a try.

Let’s see how it went!

Blurb

Aging death-metal rock legend Judas Coyne is a collector of the macabre: a cookbook for cannibals…a used hangman’s noose…a snuff film. But nothing he possesses is as unique or as dreadful as his latest purchase in this chilling gothic horror novel: a one-of-a-kind curiosity bought off the Internet that arrives at his door in a black heart-shaped box…a musty dead man’s suit still inhabited by the spirit of its late owner. And now everywhere Judas Coyne goes, the old man is there—watching, waiting, dangling a razor blade on a chain from his bony hand.

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***Brief disclosure***

I am an Amazon and Bookshop.org affiliate and earn a small commission for purchases made through the links in this post at no cost to you. It’s a great way to help me keep things running on my blog if you’re already intrigued enough to make a purchase. 

The Review

This was such a great read!

Judas Coyne has enjoyed fame for decades with a music career similar to Ozzy Osbourne. He lives a comfortable life and loves collecting macabre things. When his assistant tells him of a soul for sale online, Judas can’t help but buy the questionable possession. Little does Judas know, his little purchase will have dire consequences that threaten to tear his world asunder.

This book had so much to love. The premise was really great, and the paranormal theme was strong from beginning to end. The writing was superb with lots of rich detail, and it was nice to slow down a little and soak in all the little details. Trigger warning, there are themes of pedophilia and animal violence, but I think they were handled well and weren’t too explicit or overly emphasized.

Judas was an enigmatic main character. He’s done some questionable things and treated people awfully in the past, so at times it was hard to root for him, but he had a lot of great progression throughout the novel. Marybeth and Anna were also great characters that helped to curb his ego and keep him in check when it was needed. And don’t even get me started on Craddock!

The pacing of this book was really well balanced. There was a solid build up, and the paranormal action scenes were mixed well with slower moments for a well-rounded experience. Hands down, this is an unforgettable read, especially if you love Halloween or the paranormal.

Highly recommend!

That’s A Wrap!

Well that’s it for this book review. Like what you see? Leave a tip!

Have you read this book? Are there other similar books you’ve read that you simply have to gush about? Feel free to leave a comment. I’d love to start a conversation!

Have a great day!

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