Still House (by Christian White and Summer DeRoche)
Still House, a novella co-authored by Christian White and Summer DeRoche, is set in Australia. Married couple Dave and Lisa purchase an investment property in a coastal town, ideal for renting to individuals seeking solitude. Approximately a year into their arrangement, they receive notice that their tenants have failed to pay rent and have vanished. Notably, the renters have not only abandoned the house but have also left behind all their belongings. Consequently, Dave and Lisa are compelled to return to assess the state of the property.
Unexpectedly, the couple finds themselves stranded at the house when their vehicle fails to start. The rental property is situated in a secluded area devoid of cellular service, leaving them with limited options. As a means of entertainment and investigation, Dave and Lisa embark on a quest to uncover the fate of their former tenants.
Over the course of four hours, Still House is packed with unsettling occurrences. Is the house haunted? Were the tenants under the influence of drugs? Did they leave voluntarily or were they abducted? Dave and Lisa are overwhelmed with numerous questions, but the house remains impenetrable in providing answers. Compounded by the strain of being stranded, their marriage has deteriorated significantly. As they work to unravel the enigma surrounding their former tenants, they are also confronted with the daunting task of redefining their future together.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella and appreciated the references to well-known haunted houses. I found Dave and Lisa to be likable characters and was rooting for their marriage. The narrative was well-crafted and effectively conveyed a sense of suspense.
I acquired the audiobook of Still House through my Audible membership. The narrators, Luke Arnold and Sibylla Budd, delivered an exceptional performance in bringing the characters of Dave and Lisa to life.
You’re welcome to read my review for another novella by Christian White, which is linked below.
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