JournalStone

The hype surrounding LaRocca is real. He is quickly emerging as one of the best authors at articulating the emotions of horror: feelings of disgust, unease, but also wonder that physically pulsate through readers’ bodies as they interact with his creations. Similar to the storytelling style and reading experience of the extraordinary work of Helen Oyeyemi and Samanta Schweblin or Naben Ruthnum’s Helpmeet.

This series opener will have a wide readership because of the authentic setting, well-drawn protagonists, and compelling but not overly terrifying mystery. It expertly pays homage to writers like Algernon Blackwood (originator of this kind of story) and to present-day works that explore the format, like Alma Katsu’s The Deep, or Steven Hopstaken and Melissa Prusi’s “Stoker’s Wilde” series.