Reviewed by Jeanne
Mara is an aimless twenty-something whose extended family
tries to seem supportive but she knows she’s a disappointment. Her cousin Jeremy
is the opposite, having had a successful modeling career even before graduation
and now is the host of a popular series that combines home renovation with
ghost-hunting. When Jeremy offers her an entry level position, Mara first turns
it down but then becomes so desperate it begins to sound like a way to escape
at least.
As one of the lowest people in the production, Mara finds
herself working the night shift and learning about the finer points of
providing the needed spooky events. She
operates the fog machines, makes creepy noises, and does whatever the
production needs to unnerve the new homeowners.
It’s still a crappy job, but she’s starting to enjoy at least some of it
until a new co-worker seems poised to outdo her on the job.
I picked up this short novel because I was in the mood for
something with atmosphere and I thought fake haunted houses might be just the
ticket. It was a bit disconcerting to pick up a second book in a row with an
unemployed and unmotivated twentyish woman, but Mara did become intrigued with
her new job and seemed on her way to, as we used to say, “finding herself.” It was also interesting to see a sort of "behind the scenes" on how some of these reality shows work, how the production crews plan and shape a narrative. The plot was somewhat low-key but I did enjoy
it and am still thinking about the ending. I’m hesitant to say more, as it is a
short book and I really don’t want to give anything away.
If you’re in the mood for something just a bit off beat, this
may be a book for you.
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