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52 pages 1 hour read

House of Salt and Sorrows

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Erin A. Craig

House of Salt and Sorrows

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Highmoor • Fantasy World

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL700L

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Super Short Summary

House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig tells the story of 18-year-old Annaleigh Thaumas, who lives with her 12 sisters in Highmoor Manor by the sea. As her sisters die under mysterious circumstances, Annaleigh believes there is foul play and seeks the truth. Inspired by "The Twelve Dancing Princesses," this dark fantasy involves elaborate balls, blurred realities, and a quest to uncover a sinister secret. The book includes disturbing imagery, deaths, murders, and a stillborn birth.

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Fantastical

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

104,904 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews for Erin A. Craig's House of Salt and Sorrows highlight its atmospheric writing and blend of gothic horror with fantasy elements, which engross readers. Critics praise its vivid descriptions and suspenseful plot. Some find the pacing uneven and character development lacking. Overall, the novel succeeds in creating a haunting and immersive retelling of a classic fairy tale.

Who should read this

Who Should Read House of Salt and Sorrows?

Readers who enjoy House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig typically appreciate dark fairy tales, atmospheric settings, and intricate mysteries. Fans of Caraval by Stephanie Garber or The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden will find similar enchantment and gothic undertones.

4.1

104,904 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Annaleigh Thaumas

An empathetic and intelligent eighteen-year-old protagonist who seeks to uncover the truth behind her sister's death and their family's mysterious troubles. She is supportive of her siblings and takes on a leadership role during challenging times.

Annaleigh’s love interest and a demigod, known for his chivalrous demeanor and supernatural knowledge. He becomes an essential ally in Annaleigh's journey to solve the mysteries surrounding her family.

Annaleigh’s eldest sister and confidante, who often finds herself conflicted between mourning their lost family members and pursuing happiness. She is determined to find a suitor and is critical of their stepmother, Morella.

The youngest Thaumas sister, whose vulnerability makes her susceptible to supernatural influences. Her drawings and visions enrich the story's mysterious elements.

One of the Thaumas triplets, who shares a close bond with her sisters Rosalie and Ligeia. After suffering personal loss, she finds solace and care through Annaleigh’s support.

The Thaumas sisters' stepmother, initially appearing kind but harboring darker motivations. Her character is central to the unfolding mystery surrounding the family's past and present challenges.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Highmoor • Fantasy World

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL700L

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