53 pages • 1 hour read
Starling House
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Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Kentucky • Contemporary
2023
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Written by Hugo Award-winning author Alix E. Harrow, Starling House is a Southern Gothic speculative fiction novel about Opal, an impoverished woman trying to escape her prejudiced hometown with her brother. She becomes a housekeeper at the enigmatic Starling House, grows close to its mysterious inhabitant, Arthur, and uncovers the house's deep secrets. The book examines themes of truth, power, and choice. This text features discussions of enslavement, sexual assault, suicide, self-harm, domestic abuse, racism, sexism, classism, anti-gay bias, alcohol abuse, and violence.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
104,756 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Starling House by Alix E. Harrow is broadly well-received for its vibrant storytelling and richly developed characters. Readers appreciate the compelling blend of modern themes and gothic elements. However, some critics feel the pacing is uneven and the plot can be predictable. Overall, it is a recommended read for fans of atmospheric fiction.
Who Should Read Starling House?
Fans of The Ten Thousand Doors of January and The House in the Cerulean Sea will revel in Alix E. Harrow's Starling House. Ideal for readers who cherish atmospheric settings, intricate plots, and strong, nuanced characters. If you love gothic tales with a modern twist, this book is for you.
104,756 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Novel • Fiction
Kentucky • Contemporary
2023
Adult
18+ years
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