A Sudden Light by Garth Stein

Okay, I have to admit that this is absolutely NOT a book I would have picked to read. However, since I received an ARC from the publisher to review, I decided to give it a chance. I’m very glad I did. This is a great book with a little bit of everything: a mystery, a little bit of magic and mysticism, an almost gothic atmosphere, a multigenerational saga, all wrapped up in a tidy little package that really, really works.

When 14 year-old Trevor arrives with his father, Jones at Riddell House it is to accomplish one task: convince Jones’s father to sign over power of attorney so Riddell House can be sold to developers. However, Jones’s father, and several ghosts, have different ideas. As Trevor discovers just who his ancestors were, he uncovers secrets, lies, deceptions, and cruel men whose only concern was the accumulation of more wealth. But he will also discover love, joy and the possibility of redemption, not only for the Riddell family, but for Riddell House.

Stein gradually unfolds the history of both Riddell House and the Riddell family, until the House becomes the family, and the family IS the house.

An absolute must read! 

  

  I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.