There’s something about old Southern mansions that just screams “haunted,” isn’t there? The crumbling paint, the overgrown gardens, the secrets lurking behind every locked door. Del Sandeen’s debut novel “This Cursed House” taps into that delicious Southern gothic vibe and cranks it up to eleven.
Picture this: It’s 1962, and Jemma Barker is desperate to escape her life in Chicago. Oh, and did I mention she can see ghosts? Yeah, that’s kind of important. When a mysterious job offer comes from the Duchon family in New Orleans, Jemma jumps at the chance for a fresh start. But honey, she has no idea what she’s getting herself into.
Welcome to the Family… If You Dare
From the moment Jemma steps foot on the Duchon property, you can feel something ain’t right. The family is Black, but light-skinned enough to pass as white—and boy, do they look down on brown-skinned Jemma. There’s haughty grandmother Honorine, beautiful but unstable cousin Fosette, and a whole cast of relatives that’ll make your head spin.
But here’s the kicker: the Duchons are cursed. Like, seriously cursed. And they think Jemma has the power to break it. No pressure or anything, right?
A Tangled Web of Secrets
Sandeen weaves a complex tapestry of family history, racial tension, and supernatural horror. As Jemma digs deeper into the Duchon family secrets, she uncovers layer upon layer of disturbing truths. We’re talking century-old curses, hidden identities, and some seriously dark stuff that’ll make your skin crawl.
The pacing is relentless. Just when you think you’ve got a handle on things, Sandeen throws another curveball that’ll knock you flat. It’s like peeling an onion, except each layer makes you more likely to sleep with the lights on.
Characters That’ll Haunt Your Dreams
Let’s talk about the cast of characters, because hoo boy, are they a piece of work:
- Jemma: Our protagonist is a complicated woman. She’s running from her past, desperate for acceptance, but also strong-willed and determined. Watching her navigate the treacherous waters of the Duchon family is both frustrating and deeply satisfying.
- The Duchons: Where do I even start? Honorine is the matriarch from hell, manipulative and cold as ice. Fosette teeters on the edge of sanity, while her brother Laurence… well, let’s just say he’s got some issues. They’re all gloriously messed up, and you can’t look away.
- Magdalene: The one bright spot in Jemma’s new life. This no-nonsense woman living in the woods becomes a much-needed ally and voice of reason.
- The Ghosts: Oh yeah, did I mention the ghosts? They’re characters in their own right, with agendas and unfinished business that complicates everything.
A Master Class in Atmosphere
Sandeen’s greatest strength might be her ability to create atmosphere. The Duchon house becomes a character itself, full of creaking floorboards, hidden rooms, and dark corners where unspeakable things have happened. You can practically smell the decay and feel the oppressive Louisiana heat.
The supernatural elements are handled with a deft touch. The ghosts aren’t just cheap jump scares – they’re woven into the fabric of the story in a way that feels organic and deeply unsettling.
Themes That’ll Make You Think
“This Cursed House” by Del Sandeen isn’t just a spooky story. Sandeen tackles some heavy themes:
- Colorism within the Black community
- The lingering effects of slavery and generational trauma
- The power of forgiveness (and the dangers of holding onto hate)
- Finding your own identity in the face of family expectations
It’s a lot to chew on, and Sandeen doesn’t offer easy answers. But that’s what makes the book stick with you long after you’ve finished the last page.
A Few Bumps in the Night
Look, no book is perfect, and “This Cursed House” has a few minor issues:
- The pacing drags a bit in the middle section
- Some of the side characters could use a bit more development
- A couple of plot twists feel a tiny bit predictable
But honestly? These are nitpicks in what is otherwise a stellar debut novel.
The Verdict: A Must-Read for Horror Fans
“This Cursed House” by Del Sandeen is a tour de force of Southern gothic horror. Sandeen has crafted a story that’s equal parts terrifying, thought-provoking, and impossible to put down. If you’re a fan of Shirley Jackson, Octavia Butler, or Tananarive Due, you need to add this book to your TBR pile immediately.
What Sets It Apart
- The exploration of colorism within a Black family adds a fresh perspective to the haunted house genre
- Jemma is a complex, flawed protagonist you can’t help but root for
- The blend of historical and supernatural elements feels seamless
- Sandeen’s prose is rich and evocative without ever feeling purple
Who Should Read This Book?
- Horror fans looking for something beyond the usual haunted house tropes
- Readers interested in complex family dynamics and generational curses
- Anyone who loves a good Southern gothic atmosphere
- Those who appreciate stories that tackle social issues within a genre framework
Who Should Maybe Skip It?
- If you’re easily scared or prone to nightmares, this might be a bit much
- Readers looking for a light, breezy read (this ain’t it, folks)
- Those who prefer their horror with more gore and less psychological tension
Final Thoughts: A Promising Debut
“This Cursed House” announces Del Sandeen as a major new voice in horror fiction. It’s a confident, assured debut that left me eager to see what she’ll come up with next. The way she blends historical elements, family drama, and supernatural chills is truly impressive.
Is it perfect? Nah. But it’s a damn good read that’ll keep you up way past your bedtime, jumping at every creak in your house. And really, isn’t that what we want from a horror novel?
Similar Books You Might Enjoy
If “This Cursed House” leaves you hungry for more, check out these other fantastic haunted house stories with a twist:
- “The Good House” by Tananarive Due
- “White is for Witching” by Helen Oyeyemi
- “The Invited” by Jennifer McMahon
- “Beloved” by Toni Morrison (for a different, but equally powerful take on generational curses)
A Note on Representation
It’s worth mentioning how refreshing it is to see a haunted house story centered on Black characters, especially one that delves into the complexities of colorism within the community. Sandeen doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations, and the book is richer for it.
In Conclusion: Don’t Sleep on “This Cursed House”
Del Sandeen has crafted a chilling, thought-provoking debut that deserves a place on any horror fan’s bookshelf. It’s a story that’ll get under your skin, make you think, and maybe—just maybe—have you looking at your own family history in a new light.
So grab a copy, settle in for a long night, and prepare to be thoroughly creeped out. Just don’t blame me if you start seeing ghosts in every shadow. You’ve been warned!
A Word to the Author
Ms. Sandeen, if you’re reading this – bravo. You’ve created something special with “This Cursed House.” I can’t wait to see what nightmares you conjure up next. Just, uh, maybe give us a chance to catch our breath first, okay?