This book is one that I think will be appreciated by a select audience. It has a lot of potential and the descriptions of certain characters must be applauded (Mr Flood in particular really stands out as a creepy, yet vulnerable man). However, admittedly, I cannot say that I enjoyed the novel for a simple reason; I could not get along with the style of writing and the overload of information. The following is a spoiler-free review.

Book Blurb: Maud Drennan – underpaid carer and unintentional psychic – is the latest in a long line of dogsbodies for the ancient, belligerent Cathal Flood. Yet despite her best efforts, Maud is drawn into the mysteries concealed in his filthy, once-grand home. She realises that something is changing: Cathal, and the junk-filled rooms, are opening up to her. With only her agoraphobic landlady and a troop of sarcastic ghostly saints to help, Maud must uncover what lies beneath Cathal’s decades-old hostility, and the strange activities of the house itself. And if someone has hidden a secret there, how far will they go to ensure it remains buried?

Mr Flood is a most interesting character and the house he lives in is filled with curiosities which will capture your attention. That is a strong point of the book. However, the process of Maud trying to solve a supposed crime felt very dragged out, to the point where when the answers were given it did not feel like it even mattered. The writing of this book was just not to my taste and it is hard to keep your attention on what is going on in the book. The saints in particular had absurdly comic personalities which don’t seem to really match the subject. It is a mismatch of comedy and thriller, and you may find yourself wondering what the purpose of the saints is as most of the action only takes place in the last few chapters. If you are a fan of quaint thrillers then you are likely to enjoy this book. However, for those not used to this kind of writing the novel is not as enjoyable as it could have been. It is really a case of picking this novel if the writing style suits what you enjoy!

Rating: 2/5