House of Dark Shadows is a fantasy book written by Robert Liparulo. It is the first book in the Dreamhouse Kings series.

When Xander (a fifteen-year-old boy) and his family move from L.A. to a tiny secluded town called Pinedale, he thinks his short film career is over. But it’s far from it. While looking for a house to live in, his father finds an old mysterious Victorian mansion. His parents are instantly attracted to it and Xander has little choice but to go along with them. Only he and his brother David can see that there is something out of place about it. This is confirmed by the real estate agent, the last family to live there was murdered by the father. Xander’s father doesn’t seem to mind and they move in straight away.

While cleaning and exploring the house, their mother comes across a giant footprint in the dust, twice the size of their father’s. Thinking there could be squatters their father searches the whole house, without results, and discards the idea. But then the REALLY strange things start to happen…..

Firstly, I loved this book. Although it took me a while to get into it, I was soon completely enthralled in it. The great descriptive writing made me feel scared for the boys and I almost felt like I was in the story. I loved how all the pieces of information fitted in at the end and completed the story (unfortunately, I can’t talk about the surprise at the end). The only improvement I can think of is maybe a different time lapse. The entire book takes place in the span of a few days and I felt that that took away from the reality of the book. All in all I think this is a great novel and can also recommend the sequel.

Guest reviewer: my nephew and teen, Tim

Relz Reviewz Extras

Interview with Robert

Visit Robert’s website

Enter the Dream the Scene contest

Check back tomorrow for Tim’s take on the sequel, Watcher in the Woods